Switch Grease

Grease for electric switch mechanisms and switch contacts must meet similar demands as other mechanical sliding surfaces: film strength, appropriate low and high temperature fluid range, and stay-in-place capability.

In particular, a switch grease’s ability to prevent wear is critical. Wear debris creates two problems. It can inhibit current flow when the contact is closed, increasing millivolt (mV) drop. When the contact is open, conductive wear debris can cause open circuit resistance (OCR) problems. In either case, switch performance is compromised. When selecting a switch grease, also note that the viscosity of the base oil should complement the contact force of the switch.

Low current/low contact force applications require lighter base oils. High current/high contact force applications benefit from more viscous base oils. Take a look at the below articles to learn more about electrical switch grease selection.

Please take a look at the various switch grease related articles below, including test related information, theory and product selection help.

ATV winch switch repair and relubrication-Case Study

ATV winch switch repair and relubrication-Case Study

ATVs endure harsh conditions, which put the machine and individual components to the test. The electrical components on an ATV are chosen for their durability and often are protected by Ingress Protection (IP) rated enclosures. Given enough time, it’s likely that with enough water, salt, dust, dirt, thermo cycling and…

Electronic Parking Brake Switch Lubrication-Case Study

Electronic Parking Brake Switch Lubrication-Case Study

Small applications of synthetic grease are very important throughout a modern vehicle and the interior is no different. In this case study we will focus on an Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) switch lubrication application; sometimes EPB devices are referred to as E-Brake. Throughout the interior of a vehicle, lubricants reduce…

Base oil temperature capability information

Base oil temperature capability information

We have a number of base oils to select from when formulating a grease. Quite often the first way to start the product selection process is ruling out grease that doesn’t have the temperature capability that is required in your application. The chart featured on this page gives the reader…

Pour Point test (ASTM D-97)

Pour Point test (ASTM D-97)

The purpose of the Pour Point test is to help define the lowest operating temperature for an oil. During this relatively simple test, the temperature is slowly reduced and it is noted at what point the fluid becomes too viscous to flow. Some times Pour Point is referred to as…

Grease thickener characteristics

Grease thickener characteristics

The grease range we offer uses a wide variety of thickener systems. The various characteristics of the thickener (also known as gellant – US terminology) gives the ability of our grease formulators to meet the challenges faced by our customers. Formulating a grease generally involves balancing the pros and cons…

Introduction to Alkylated Naphthalene

Introduction to Alkylated Naphthalene

Alkylated Naphthalenes (AN) are a reaction of olefins with a naphthalene nucleus resulting in a base oil with excellent thermal and oxidative stability. In addition AN has first-rate hydrolytic stability and is miscible with other synthetic hydrocarbons, most notably Polyalphaolefins (PAO). Alkylated Naphthalenes summary: Keep in mind that if a Alkylated…

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