Lubrication Facts & Knowledge

Engine oil doesn't just get dirty over time—its protective additives actually get used up through chemical reactions. Detergent additives sacrifice themselves by neutralizing acidic combustion byproducts, while anti-wear additives bond to metal surfaces and gradually wear away with...

Trains apply special grease to wheel flanges to prevent the loud squealing sound when rounding curves. Without this lubrication, the metal-on-metal contact between the wheel edge and rail can create noise exceeding 100...

Molybdenum disulfide is a solid lubricant that works where oils fail, even in the vacuum of space. Its layered molecular structure allows sheets to slide over each other like a deck of cards, providing...

In cold climates, motor oil can become too thick to flow properly, which is why oils are rated with a "W" number like 5W-30. The "W" stands for winter, and the number indicates the coldest temperature at which the oil will...

When mechanics mount tires onto wheel rims, they use special water-based lubricants to help the tire bead slide over the rim edge. Without this slippery soap, the rubber would stick and resist installation, making it nearly impossible to seat the...

Modern cars increasingly use tiny sensors that analyze engine oil in real-time while you drive. These sensors measure electrical conductivity, viscosity, and chemical changes to detect contamination, water intrusion, and oil degradation....

Modern car wheel bearings can spin hundreds of millions of times over a vehicle's lifetime, often sealed with just a few grams of grease. This grease must withstand temperatures from -40°C to over 150°C while preventing water and dirt from entering. Many...

Vinyl record players rely on precise lubrication in their spindle bearings and tonearm pivots to produce clean sound. A well-lubricated turntable bearing spins so smoothly that the platter can rotate for minutes after power is turned...

ATMs process over 27 billion transactions annually, and their card readers must stay lubricated to handle thousands of card insertions daily. Special low-residue lubricants prevent dust buildup on sensors while ensuring smooth card movement through the mechanism. The lubricants...

Professional baseball players carefully condition their leather gloves with special oils to keep them flexible and game-ready. The most popular choices include mink oil, lanolin, and petroleum-based conditioners that penetrate the leather fibers without over-softening. Breaking in...