- Operational Environment Operational conditions such as high humidity, corrosive gases, low temperatures, dust, and strong radiation can contaminate and damage bearing lubricants. To address this, it is important to select lubricants resistant to water, abrasion, corrosion, cold, and radiation. Oil should be chosen over water-based lubricants in conditions of water splash, emulsion spray, humid air, or dusty and dirty environments.
- Bearing Precision Bearing friction surfaces tend to be rough and require lubricants with high viscosity. However, to reduce friction and energy loss due to local pressure, high-precision friction surfaces should use lubricants with low viscosity.
- Operational Temperature Operational temperature affects the viscosity and performance of lubricants. In environments with low temperatures, lubricants with low viscosity are preferred, while in environments with high temperatures, lubricants with high viscosity or suitable additives should be chosen. At extremely high temperatures, solid lubricants may be an option.
- Motion Speed High-speed motion requires lubricants with low viscosity to avoid increased motion resistance and excessive heat. Conversely, low-speed motion requires lubricants with high viscosity to enhance load-bearing capacity.
- Motion Characteristics Shocks, vibrations, load changes, and intermittent or oscillating motion require lubricants with higher viscosity or even grease to ensure reliable lubrication.
- Workload The greater the load borne by the bearing, the higher the viscosity of the lubricating oil needed to avoid oil squeezing and maintain proper lubrication.
- Bearing Surface Hardness The hardness of the bearing friction surface affects the selection of lubricant viscosity. Harder surfaces require lubricants with high viscosity to ensure adequate lubrication.
