LUBRICANTS

Lubricants, also known as lubes, are substances used to reduce friction (increase lubricity) and heat generated between two surfaces. They can also facilitate the transportation of particles, and heating and cooling forces. In addition, they can be used as a conductive agent to increase the flow of a current. Lubricants are an essential part of the proper function and maintenance of machines and components with two or more moving parts that rub together. Some of the industries in which lubricants are used include: automotive, aerospace, marine, metal fabrication and food and beverage. In the automotive industry, lubricants are used in the vehicle manufacturing process and in daily vehicle function. Car transmissions, engines, chassis, gears and seals use lubricants, all of which contribute to a vehicle’s optimal performance and ensure its reliability. Oil and grease reduce friction between parts, easing wear and increasing the car’s life span. In aerospace, industrial lubrication oil can be used as jet fuel. Meanwhile, the marine industry often uses oil lubricants in crosshead and trunk piston engines that are used to propel large ships. The metal fabrication industries use lubricants extensively in the creation of metal products and parts. Those lubricants used in the food and beverage industry are used to decrease friction in: grinders, mixers and sealing and packaging machinery.