In industrial and automotive applications, extreme heat can break down standard lubricants, leading to equipment failure, increased wear, and costly downtime. This is where best high-temperature grease steps in. Designed to perform under intense thermal conditions, it offers critical protection for machinery components operating in harsh environments. This guide covers everything you need to know about high-temperature grease—from its composition and applications to how to choose and maintain it effectively.

What Is a High-Temperature Grease?

High-temperature grease is a specialized lubricant formulated to maintain stability, viscosity, and protective properties at elevated temperatures—often above 150°C (302°F) and, in some cases, exceeding 1000°C (1832°F) for short durations. Unlike conventional greases, it resists oxidation, evaporation, and degradation under extreme thermal stress. It is widely used in industries such as steel manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, glass production, and food processing.

Composition and Special Properties

High-temperature greases typically consist of three main components:

1. Base Oil

Base oils can be synthetic (e.g., PAO, ester) or mineral. Synthetic oils are preferred for their superior thermal and oxidative stability.

2. Thickener

The thickener forms the grease’s structural framework. For high-heat environments, the most common thickeners include:

• Complex soaps (like lithium complex, calcium sulfonate, or aluminum complex)

• Clay-based (bentonite) thickeners, which are non-melting and stable

• Polyurea, known for oxidation resistance and long service life

3. Additives

Additives enhance performance, including:

• Antioxidants to slow thermal degradation

• EP (Extreme Pressure) agents for heavy loads

• Anti-wear additives

• Corrosion inhibitors

Special properties of high-temperature grease include:

• High dropping point (often >250°C)

• Excellent thermal and oxidative stability

• Resistance to water washout

• Load-carrying capability and long relubrication intervals

Applications of High-Temperature Grease

High-temperature greases are essential wherever frictional heat, ambient temperatures, or process heat can break down regular lubricants. Key applications include:

• Automotive: Wheel bearings, disc brakes, turbochargers

• Industrial: Furnace conveyor bearings, kiln fans, steel mills

• Food industry: Oven conveyors (using NSF H1 food-grade high-temp grease)

• Aerospace: Jet engine components, aircraft bearings

• Foundries & Forging: Molds, die-casting machines, exhaust fans

• Power Plants: Turbines, high-heat motors

How to Choose the Right High-Temperature Grease

Choosing the right grease depends on the specific application and environment:

• Temperature Range: Ensure the grease’s operating temperature range aligns with your system’s conditions.

• Load Requirements: For high loads, choose a grease with EP and anti-wear additives.

• Speed Factor (DN Value): Bearings operating at high speeds require a grease with the right consistency (typically NLGI 1 or 2).

• Environmental Conditions: For wet or corrosive environments, select a water-resistant or corrosion-inhibited formulation.

• Compatibility: Always confirm compatibility with existing grease to avoid chemical reactions.

Best High-Temperature Greases on the Market

Here are a few trusted products that perform exceptionally well in high-temperature environments:

1. Mobiltemp SHC 460 – Synthetic grease for bearings in high-speed, high-temp applications.

2. Shell Gadus S5 T460 – Excellent oxidation resistance and mechanical stability.

3. SKF LGHP 2 – A wide-temp range grease, popular for electric motors and fans.

4. Klübertemp GR AR 555 – For ultra-high temp, chemically aggressive environments.

5. Castrol Spheerol AP3 HT – Heavy-duty high-temp grease with enhanced EP performance.

6. Molykote 33 Light – Specialty silicone-based grease for extreme low to medium high temps.

Always consult the manufacturer’s technical datasheet (TDS) for temperature range and compatibility before application.

High-Temperature Grease vs. Regular Grease 

Key Factors to Consider

Before selecting and applying a high-temperature grease, assess the following:

• Operating Temperature & Spikes

• Load and Speed Conditions

• Re-lubrication Intervals

• Grease Compatibility

• Environment (e.g., moisture, dust, chemicals)

• Regulatory Requirements (e.g., food-grade standards)

Also, remember that over-lubrication in high-heat areas can lead to thermal degradation and carbon buildup.

Maintenance Tips for Using High-Temperature Grease

Proper maintenance ensures optimal performance and equipment life:

• Clean Old Grease Before Relubrication – Mixing old and new greases may cause incompatibility.

• Use the Right Amount – Avoid overpacking; excess grease heats up and degrades quickly.

• Monitor Bearing Temperatures – High temps may indicate insufficient or degraded grease.

• Follow Relubrication Schedules – High-temp applications often require shorter intervals.

• Use Grease Guns and Sealed Systems – To prevent contamination and improve precision.

• Store Properly – Keep grease in cool, dry areas to prevent pre-use oxidation or contamination.

Conclusion

High-temperature grease is vital for the reliability and longevity of equipment operating under extreme heat. Understanding its formulation, selecting the right type, and maintaining proper application techniques can prevent failures and extend service life in high-demand environments. Whether you’re maintaining automotive bearings, industrial ovens, or precision aerospace components, investing in the correct high-temp grease will pay dividends in efficiency, safety, and equipment durability.