Effective lubrication is a cornerstone of optimal machinery and equipment performance across various industrial applications. In this context, the National Lubricating Grease Institute (NLGI) emerges as a pivotal organization, dedicated to supporting and disseminating relevant information to foster the development of superior lubricating greases for the market. This article aims to establish the NLGI’s fundamental role, its grease classifications and specifications, and the certifications derived from these standards, providing a deeper understanding for end-users.
NLGI: Pioneers in Lubricating Grease Standards
Founded in 1933, the NLGI plays a vital role in promoting research and development in lubricating greases. It focuses on establishing standards and certifications that guide both manufacturers and end-users, ensuring the quality and performance of lubricating greases.
NLGI Classifications and Specifications: Guaranteeing Quality and Performance
In 1989, the NLGI developed a set of classifications and specifications for automotive lubricating greases based on ASTM D4950, divided into two primary categories:
- Chassis Lubricants (Letter Designation L): Designed for chassis applications in vehicles, with two letter designations: LA and LB.
- Designed for chassis applications in vehicles, with two letter designations: LA and LB. Intended for wheel bearings, with three letter designations: GA, GB, and GC.
In the automotive industry, the highest performance classification in each group (GC and LB) is ideal for service re-lubrication, designed for greases that meet the most stringent standards for chassis and wheel bearing lubricants.
Recently (2021), NLGI introduced the HPM certification, designed for greases meeting demanding performance requirements set by NLGI. As of February 2024, 23 products have been certified, with LUBRAL being the first Mexican company and the 14th worldwide to achieve this certification.
High Performance Multipurpose Grease (HPM) Certification
The NLGI HPM certification is a performance specification for versatile greases used in various applications requiring similar lubrication properties. This certification incorporates a primary HPM CORE specification and four labels representing enhanced performance levels in critical areas:
- Water Resistance (HPM + WR): Designed for greases with superior water resistance.
- Corrosion Resistance (HPM + CR): Designed for greases exhibiting superior corrosion resistance.
- High Load Capacity (HPM + HL): Designed for greases demonstrating exceptional load-carrying capacity.
- Low-Temperature Performance (HPM + LT): Designed for greases exhibiting outstanding performance in low-temperature conditions.
The HPM certification applies to any thickener type (soap or non-soap), meaning there are no restrictions on raw materials such as base oil, additives, or manufacturing processes to obtain a high-performance multipurpose grease certification.
These certifications serve as seals of approval, indicating that products have been evaluated and meet the industry’s most rigorous standards.
For accurate and up-to-date information on NLGI product certifications, please visit their website (https://www.nlgi.org/certifications/).
