Grease Analysis

Grease analysis is less commonly performed than oil analysis but provides equally valuable condition data for components where oil sampling is not practical. Slew ring bearings, deck machinery pins, and open gear systems can be assessed through grease sampling. ORDNEX coordinates grease analysis through qualified UAE-based laboratory partners.

PURPOSE & ENGINEERING VALUE

Why Grease Analysis Matters

Grease serves as both a lubricant and a seal against contamination ingress. In marine deck environments, salt water, seawater spray, and abrasive particles constantly challenge grease integrity.

Analysis identifies when grease has degraded beyond its protective capacity before visible evidence of wear emerges, supporting informed replenishment decisions rather than calendar-based intervals.

Grease Compatibility Warning

Mixing incompatible grease types (e.g., lithium with calcium complex) can cause rapid consistency loss and bearing failure. FTIR thickener identification confirms compatibility before mixing occurs.

Typical Report Turnaround

3 to 5 business days for full grease analysis panel.

ORDNEX coordinates testing through qualified laboratory partners. Turnaround times are subject to laboratory capacity and sample condition.

TEST PARAMETERS

Analysis Parameters & Interpretation

Penetration / Consistency (NLGI Grade)Measures the softness or hardness of the grease. Deviation from the original NLGI grade indicates shear degradation, oil separation, or contamination.

Dropping PointThe temperature at which grease liquefies. A reduced dropping point warns of thickener degradation and loss of high-temperature retention.

Oil Separation (Bleed)Excessive oil bleed indicates structural breakdown of the thickener, reducing the grease's ability to maintain a protective film.

Water ContentWater contamination softens grease, promotes corrosion, and supports microbial growth. Marine environments present high ingress risk.

Wear Metals (ICP)Iron, copper, and other wear metals in grease samples identify component wear in bearings, pins, and sliding surfaces.

Contaminant AnalysisSilicon (dirt), sodium (water contamination), and other contaminants indicate ingress or mixing with incompatible lubricants.

Oxidation IndicatorsOxidation products increase acidity and reduce the protective properties of the grease, particularly in high-temperature or long-service applications.

Thickener Identification (FTIR)Confirms the thickener type (lithium, calcium, polyurea) to detect mixing with incompatible greases, which can cause rapid structural collapse.

TYPICAL APPLICATIONS

Equipment Categories

·Open gear and rack-and-pinion systems

·Deck crane slew ring bearings

·Wire rope and chain lubrication

·CPP propeller blade root seals

·Anchor windlass gears

·Mooring winch drum bearings

·Rudder and tiller bearing pins

·Industrial conveyor and fan bearings

INDUSTRIES SERVED

Operational Sectors

·Commercial Shipping

·Ports & Terminals

·Offshore Support Vessels

·Marine Contractors

·Shipyards

·Industrial Manufacturing

·Naval & Coast Guard

·Power Generation

Related Services

Lubricating Oil Analysis →Wear Metal Analysis →

LABORATORY INTAKE

Submit a Grease Analysis Request

Provide grease type, NLGI grade, application point, and service duration. ORDNEX will coordinate sampling guidance and laboratory routing.