How to Choose the Right Gear Oil for Industrial Gearboxes

Gear oil for industrial gearboxes is fundamental for equipment longevity. The wrong oil can cause premature wear, overheating, excessive noise and costly breakdowns.

What does gear oil do?

1. Lubrication: creates a protective film between gear teeth
2. Cooling: absorbs and dissipates friction heat
3. Corrosion protection: protects from oxidation and moisture
4. Cleaning: carries wear particles to filters and magnetic plugs

Viscosity: the most important parameter

• VG 100: medium-speed, moderate loads
• VG 150: most common in general industry
• VG 220: high loads or low speeds, common in heavy machinery
• VG 320: very high loads, large gearboxes

Mineral or synthetic?

Mineral oils (CLP)

Standard choice for most gearboxes. Good value, available in all grades. Suitable when operating temperature is moderate (up to 80-90°C).

Synthetic oils (PAO/PAG)

For conditions exceeding mineral capabilities: high temperatures, extreme loads, worm gears (synthetic reduces sliding friction 20-30%).

Gear types

Spur and helical gears

Most common. Standard EP mineral oils work well.

Worm gears

High sliding friction generating significant heat. PAG synthetic oils are the best option, reducing operating temperature 10-20°C versus mineral.

When to change?

• Mineral: every 5,000-10,000 hours or 1-2 years
• Synthetic: every 10,000-20,000 hours or 3-5 years