Aircraft operate in some of the most demanding environments in the world, and grease plays a critical role in keeping components moving smoothly under those conditions. From cold-soaked components at altitude, to high temperatures generated during braking and ground operations, aviation greases must maintain their protective properties across a wide thermal range.
Why Temperature Performance Is Critical
Aviation grease must remain workable in cold conditions so it can properly lubricate bearings and moving parts, while also staying stable at high temperatures without thinning, separating, or losing adhesion. If a grease becomes too stiff in low temperatures, components may not move as designed. If it softens excessively in heat, it can migrate away from critical areas, increasing wear and the risk of corrosion.
Because of this, aviation greases are carefully engineered using specific base oils and thickening agents to ensure consistent performance regardless of environmental extremes.
Commonly Used Aviation Greases
Several well-established grease products are widely used in aviation due to their proven performance, approvals and compliance with industry and OEM requirements:
- AeroShell Grease 22
A synthetic, multi-purpose aviation grease designed for high loads and a broad temperature range. It is commonly used in landing gear bearings and other heavily loaded components. - AeroShell Grease 33
A versatile airframe grease known for corrosion protection and wide usability across aircraft structures, reducing the need for multiple grease types in maintenance operations, reducing servicing time as well as potential mistakes in correct applications. - AeroShell Grease 5 and 6
Traditional mineral-based greases often used for general airframe lubrication and wheel bearings in moderate operating environments. - Mobil Aviation Grease SHC 100
A synthetic grease formulated to provide reliable lubrication under temperature stress, offering good resistance to water washout and wear in wheel bearing applications, with excellent performance in keeping the bearing protected from water, deicing fluids and other chemicals. - Mobilgrease 28
A long-standing aviation grease recognized for its ability to perform at elevated temperatures while providing strong protection against corrosion, often specified in military and commercial aviation.
