Wire rope forms an important part of many machines and structures. There are many kinds of wire rope designed for different applications. The wire rope’s performance is influenced by several factors, including type of operation and environment which can accelerate corrosion, oxidation, and wear. Hence, proper, and adequate lubricant application in the field is paramount. Essentially, wire rope lubricants have three principal functions, and it is to reduce friction, provide wear protection and corrosion protection.
The following are the lubrication requirements for steel wire ropes that most operators look for:
- Consistency class NLGI 1…2
- Excellent adhesion, no drip-off
- Good corrosion protection
- High dropping point (temperature of >150 ˚C in the wire rope during operation)
- Good wear protection to achieve long lifetime
- High water wash/spray-off resistance
- Suitable for automatic lubrication systems
- Worldwide availability
