An integrated solution for lubricating grease selection with a global reach

A reduction in emissions and carbon footprint depends to a large extent on the efficiency of the machinery we are relying on daily. Rotating parts in these machines are usually supported by rolling bearings, up to 90% of which are grease lubricated.

It is estimated that frictional losses in grease-lubricated components account for up to 3.5% of global energy consumption. A large part of these losses are due to a suboptimal selection of greases.

Another challenge is a shift from the most common grease type, lithium thickened grease, to other greases due to toxicity concerns and rapidly growing demand for lithium-ion batteries.

These factors further contribute to the complexity of grease lubrication and increase the risk for elevated issues with sub-optimal bearing lubrication.

The aim of the proposed project is to combine the knowledge and experience of academic researchers and industrial partners to develop a digital tool for grease assessment.

Friction data for a large number of different types of greases studied at KTH will be analysed to develop empirical computational models. To verify the models, independently existing data from field tests will be used. Life cycle assessment will be carried out to quantify the environmental impacts.

The project will improve our state of knowledge regarding grease lubrication and help industry to benefit from this via a mobile application enabling annual energy savings that are in the long term estimated to be 3 TWh in Sweden alone.