Grease

About Grease

Grease is a semi-solid lubricant essential for reducing friction, preventing wear, and protecting metal components from corrosion across countless trade and industrial applications. Unlike liquid oils that run off vertical surfaces and open mechanisms, grease consists of base oil suspended in a thickening agent, allowing it to stay exactly where applied. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a comprehensive range including general-purpose lithium grease for everyday workshop tasks, high-temperature bearing greases, food-safe formulations meeting NSF H1 standards, silicone lubricants for seals and O-rings, and anti-seize compounds for threaded fasteners exposed to extreme conditions.

The selection at MyToolShed features trusted professional brands including ROCOL and Sealey, available in convenient tubes, cartridges for grease guns, and applicator-ready formats. Whether maintaining power tools, servicing automotive components, lubricating industrial machinery, or working in food processing environments, these specialist greases are engineered to withstand demanding conditions—from extreme temperatures and water washout to dusty, contaminated environments—ensuring optimal equipment performance and extended service life.

Applications

Professional grease is used daily across numerous trades and industries:

• Mechanics and Auto Technicians: Wheel bearings, suspension components, steering linkages, and chassis lubrication points
• Plant and Maintenance Engineers: Industrial machinery, conveyor systems, motors, and production equipment servicing
• Electricians: Protecting electrical connections and cable pulling operations
• Plumbers and Heating Engineers: Lubricating taps, valves, pump seals, and threaded connections
• Agricultural Workers: Tractors, harvesters, and farm machinery exposed to harsh outdoor conditions
• Joiners and Carpenters: Power tool maintenance including drill chucks, gearboxes, and sliding mechanisms
• Construction Workers: Site equipment, power tools, and machinery in dusty, demanding environments
• Food Industry Technicians: Processing and packaging equipment requiring food-safe lubricants
• Marine Engineers: Saltwater corrosion protection and deck equipment maintenance
• DIY Enthusiasts: General household maintenance, bicycle servicing, and equipment care

Choosing The Right Grease

Application Type: Multi-purpose lithium grease suits most everyday workshop and automotive needs. Specialist applications require specific formulations—bearing grease for high-speed rotation, anti-seize for exhaust systems, silicone grease for rubber seals, or white lithium for visible applications where cleanliness matters.

Operating Temperature: Standard greases typically perform between -20°C and +130°C. High-temperature applications like oven conveyors or brake components require specialist heat-resistant formulations, whilst food processing environments need certified food-grade alternatives.

Environmental Conditions: Marine and outdoor applications demand excellent water resistance. Dusty construction sites require contamination-resistant products. Food processing mandates NSF-certified food-safe greases.

NLGI Grade: Grade 2 (peanut butter consistency) is standard for most applications. Grade 1 suits low-temperature or centralised systems, whilst Grade 3 works better for vertical applications or wheel bearings.

Packaging Format: Tubes offer precision for small jobs, cartridges fit standard grease guns for bulk machinery lubrication, and built-in applicators suit occasional users.

Safety Information

Wear nitrile or chemical-resistant gloves when applying grease, particularly specialist formulations containing metal particles. Prolonged skin contact can cause irritation or dermatitis. Always consult safety data sheets for specific products and ensure COSHH compliance in workplace environments. In food processing, only use NSF H1 certified food-grade greases applied carefully to minimise contamination risk. Store containers sealed in cool, dry conditions away from ignition sources. Avoid over-greasing, which can cause bearing overheating, seal damage, and workshop slip hazards.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between grease and oil?

Grease is oil suspended in a thickening agent, creating a semi-solid consistency that stays in place on vertical surfaces and open mechanisms. Oil flows freely and suits enclosed systems with circulating lubrication. Grease is ideal for bearings, gears, and components where oil would run off or require frequent reapplication.

Can different types of grease be mixed?

Mixing incompatible greases can cause separation, softening, or hardening, losing lubricating properties. If changing grease types, clean components thoroughly first. Lithium-based greases are generally compatible with each other, but avoid mixing different thickener types. When uncertain, clean completely before applying new grease.

How often should I apply grease to equipment?

Lubrication frequency depends on application, operating conditions, and manufacturer recommendations. High-speed or heavily-loaded bearings may need monthly greasing, whilst light-duty equipment might only require annual attention. Check equipment manuals for specific intervals, as over-greasing can be as problematic as under-greasing.