In heavy industrial and mining environments, lubricants are subjected to punishing conditions. Extreme shock loads, constant water exposure, dirt ingress, and shearing forces can rapidly break down conventional greases, leading to metal-to-metal contact, accelerated bearing wear, and costly unscheduled downtime. Maintaining multiple specialized greases for different seasonal temperatures or equipment types also increases warehouse inventory costs and raises the risk of maintenance personnel applying the wrong product.
The technical data sheet for Whitmore Novagard Extreme Pressure Multipurpose Grease details an aluminum complex grease engineered to solve these exact problems. Formulated specifically for demanding, grease-lubricated mining and earthmoving applications, this versatile EP 2 grade grease replaces multiple single-purpose lubricants, streamlining inventory while extending component service life.
How does Whitmore Novagard prevent metal-to-metal contact under heavy shock loads?
Whitmore Novagard utilizes a combination of molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) and graphite to provide robust solid film lubrication. When equipment experiences severe shock loads or reversing directions, the fluid hydrodynamic film can momentarily rupture. The MoS2 and graphite solids suspended in Novagard plate out onto the load-bearing metal surfaces, creating a physical protective barrier that prevents direct metal-to-metal contact even when the primary grease matrix is squeezed out.
This dual-solid fortification is particularly valuable in heavy machinery that undergoes frequent stop-and-go operations, reversing cycles, or sudden impact loading. By virtually eliminating metal-to-metal friction during these critical moments, Novagard protects expensive bushings, pivot points, and bucket pins from scoring and welding.
What are the key performance specifications of Whitmore Novagard EP 2?
The technical characteristics of Whitmore Novagard are validated through standard ASTM testing, demonstrating high load-carrying capacity and physical stability under extreme operating pressures:
- Thickener Type: Aluminum Complex, which provides inherent water resistance and a durable physical structure.
- ASTM D-217 Cone Penetration (Worked): 265-295, placing it firmly in the NLGI Grade 2 consistency class.
- ASTM D-2265 Dropping Point: 480°F (249°C), indicating excellent high-temperature structural integrity.
- ASTM D-2509 Timken OK Load: 60 lbs, showcasing robust load-bearing capability.
- ASTM D-2596 Four Ball EP Weld Point: 620 kg, with a Load Wear Index of 85, confirming outstanding extreme pressure protection under catastrophic loading.
- ASTM D-2266 Four Ball Wear: Scar width of 0.55 mm, demonstrating strong wear reduction.
- ASTM D-445 Kinematic Viscosity: 177 cSt at 40°C and 14.5 cSt at 100°C.
- ASTM D-4048 Copper Strip Corrosion: 1A rating (at 212°F/100°C for 3 hours), ensuring the grease is non-corrosive to yellow metals.
Why does an aluminum complex base grease resist water wash-off?
The aluminum complex thickener system used in Whitmore Novagard is naturally hydrophobic, meaning it actively repels water rather than absorbing it or breaking down in its presence. Mining operations and heavy earthmoving tasks are frequently exposed to rain, mud, and high-moisture process environments. While conventional soap-thickened greases can emulsify or wash out when contaminated with water, Novagard retains its consistency and adhesive properties.
Furthermore, the physical structure of this aluminum complex base forms a highly durable physical seal around the outer edges of bearings and bushings. This acts as a protective barrier that seals out external dirt, grit, and process water, keeping the internal sliding surfaces clean and fully lubricated.
Where should Whitmore Novagard be applied in heavy industrial operations?
Whitmore Novagard is formulated for high-wear, high-load mechanical interfaces in both mobile mining fleets and stationary plant equipment. It is highly recommended for the lubrication of antifriction bearings, heavy-duty bushings, vehicle chassis lubrication points, and universal joints (U-joints).
On heavy earthmoving machinery, Novagard is ideal for the highly stressed pivot points and bucket pins of draglines, power shovels, excavators, heavy haul trucks, and conveyors. Additionally, its wide usable temperature range of 20°F to 330°F (-7°C to 165°C) allows it to perform reliably across shifting seasons without requiring a change in grease grades, making it equally effective for indoor in-plant applications and exposed outdoor rolling stock.
Summary
- Solid Film Protection: Uses MoS2 and graphite solids to prevent metal-to-metal wear and component scoring under high shock loads.
- High EP performance: Achieves a 620 kg Four Ball EP weld point and a 60 lb Timken OK load to protect heavily loaded mining components.
- Water and Dirt Barrier: The water-resistant aluminum complex thickener resists wash-off and seals out abrasive environmental contaminants.
- Temperature Range: Operates reliably from 20°F to 330°F (-7°C to 165°C), reducing the logistical need for seasonal grease grade swaps.
Products discussed in this episode
- NOVAGARD EP 2
- WHITMORE NOVAGARD WINTER EP 1 Pail Greases
- NOVAGARD WINTER EP 1 Keg Greases
- NOVAGARD WINTER EP
- WHITMORE NOVAGARD EP 2 Pail Greases
- NOVAGARD EP 2 Keg Greases
- NOVAGARD EP
- WHITMORE NOVAGARD EP 1 50 CARTRIDGE Greases
- NOVAGARD EP 1 Pail Greases
- NOVAGARD EP 1 Keg Greases
- WHITMORE NOVAGARD EP 1 Drum Greases
- NOVAGARD EP 0 Keg Greases
- NOVAGARD EP
- WHITMORE Novagard EP 2 Tote Greases
Browse all Whitmore products on PE Energy Industrial Supply.
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