top of page
Aluminium Complex Grease Formulation
Aluminium Complex Grease: General Overview, Composition and Formulation
Aluminium complex grease is known for a high dropping point, tacky texture, water resistance and compatibility with many base oils. It can be developed for industrial, open-gear and selected food-processing applications when every ingredient and manufacturing control meets the intended requirement.
The formulation is selected according to load, speed, temperature, water exposure, pumpability, adhesion and regulatory needs.
General Composition of Aluminium Complex Grease
- COMPONENT | PURPOSE
Base oil
Mineral, synthetic or food-compatible oil selected for the application.
Aluminium source
Forms the metal component of the complex thickener.
Long-chain organic acid
Contributes to grease structure and lubricating properties.
Short-chain complexing acid
Supports formation of the aluminium complex thickener.
Antioxidant and corrosion inhibitor
Improve oxidation stability and protect metal surfaces.
EP additives, polymers or solids
Added for load carrying, adhesion and open-gear performance.
Food-compatible additives
Used only when the complete product is intended for eligible food-related applications.
Final composition requires laboratory validation and compliance review.
Production Process and Lubechem Technical Support
- TYPICAL MANUFACTURING SEQUENCE
1. Charge the selected oil portion.
2. Add and react the aluminium thickener components.
3. Control water removal and temperature.
4. Develop the complex thickener structure.
5. Add finishing oil and begin controlled cooling.
6. Incorporate compatible additives.
7. Homogenise and adjust final consistency.
8. Deaerate, test and release.
LUBECHEM SUPPORT
• Industrial, open-gear and eligible food-grade concepts
• Formula, composition, SOP and batch sheet
• Lab and pilot-batch guidance
• Process and equipment selection
• Commercial scale-up
• Operator training
• Troubleshooting of softening, hardening and poor texture
Typical Specifications, Testing and Applications
- TYPICAL DEVELOPMENT TARGETS
NLGI grade: 0–3
Worked penetration: ASTM D217
Dropping point: commonly above 230°C, formulation-dependent
Water washout: ASTM D1264
Oil separation: ASTM D1742 or equivalent
Rust prevention: ASTM D1743
Four-ball wear/weld: ASTM D2266 and ASTM D2596
Mechanical stability: extended worked penetration
Food-related claims: require suitable ingredients, controls and applicable registration
COMMON APPLICATIONS
• Open gears and centralized systems
• Mining and heavy industrial equipment
• Wet machinery and conveyors
• Selected food-processing equipment
• Tacky specialty lubricants
Final limits are established through testing.
Aluminium Complex Grease: Frequently Asked Questions
- Is every aluminium complex grease food grade?
No. Food-grade status depends on every ingredient, manufacturing control and registration.
Is it suitable for high-temperature service?
It can have a high dropping point, but actual operating temperature must be validated.
Can tacky open-gear grades be developed?
Yes, using suitable oil viscosity, polymers and solid lubricants.
Can coloured grades be produced?
Yes, using compatible dye technology.
Which documents can Lubechem provide?
Composition, SOP, batch sheet, testing plan and scale-up records can be included.
Get in Touch with Us
If you found this information useful and would like to discuss further, please contact us. We are committed to providing high-quality solutions tailored to your specific needs.
bottom of page