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Shelf Life for Lubricating Grease
SHELF LIFE FOR LUBRICATING GREASE
| Grease | Grease with NLGI grade ≥ 1 | Lithium, lithium complex, calcium sulfonate complex, PFPE-based. | 5 years |
| Calcium, calcium complex, aluminum complex, polyurea, bentonite, and silicone. | 2 years | ||
| Grease with NLGI grades 000, 00, 0 | All thickeners. | 2 years |
SHELF LIFE FOR LUBRICATING OIL
| Industrial Oil | Mineral-based lubricants | 5 years |
| Ester-based lubricants | 5 years | |
| PAO-based lubricants | 5 years | |
| Polyglycerol-based lubricants | 2 years | |
| Water-soluble metalworking oils | 8 months |
STORAGE CONDITIONS AFFECTING ALL LUBRICANTS
| Temperature | Both high heat and extreme cold can affect lubricant stability. Heat will increase the rate of oil oxidation. Cold can result in wax and possible sediment formation. In addition, alternating exposure to heat and cold may result in the breathing of drums and possible moisture contamination. A temperature range of -17°C to 45°C is acceptable for the storage of most lubricating oils and greases. Ideally, the storage temperature range should be from 0°C to 25°C. |
| Water | Water will react with some lubricant additives. It can also promote microbial growth at the oil/water interface. Lubricants should be stored in a dry location, preferably inside. |
| Light | Light may impact color and appearance in lubricants. Lubricants should be kept in the original metal or plastic. |
| Particulate Contamination | Lubricant drums and pails should not be stored in areas where there is a high level of airborne particles. This is especially important when a partially used container is stored for later use. |
| Atmospheric Contamination | Oxygen and carbon dioxide can react with lubricants and affect their viscosity and consistency. Keeping lubricant containers sealed until the product is needed is the best protection. |
RECOMMENDED STORAGE CONDITION AND PRACTICES FOR LUBRICANTS OILS AND GREASES.
- Store lubricating oils and grease in a cool dry indoor area where airborne particles are at a minimum. Indoor storage also prevents label and container deterioration from exposure to weather.
- If drums must be stored outside, use plastic covers or tip oil drums to direct water and contamination away from the bungs. Always store greases upright to prevent oil separation.
- When necessary, bring grease to a satisfactory dispensing temperature just prior to use.
- Rotate inventory. Check the container fill date and use the oldest container first.
- Keep containers tightly covered or closed to avoid contamination.
- Wipe off the tops and edges of containers before opening to avoid contamination.
- Use clean tools and equipment when pumping or handling lubricants and greases.