Nanotech Industrial Solutions (NIS) recently introduced a new additive for calcium-sulfonate grease. The IF-WS2 additive is intended for extreme conditions where heat, water and load or shock forces are present, such as in mining and off-road construction equipment, the marine industry, and steel and paper mills.
At the core of the additive’s formulation are inorganic fullerene-like nanoparticles of tungsten disulfide (WS2). These particles act as tiny ball bearings and have no edges to prevent the chemical reactions that can cause some lubricants to stick.
Under extreme pressure, the multilayered particles exfoliate, forming a protective film on the contacting surfaces. The submicron size and quasi-spherical morphology are also designed to enhance the lubricity and anti-friction properties.
In field trials, the IF-WS2 additive increased bearing service life by nearly 100 percent while also improving lubricity, reducing friction and lowering operating temperatures.
“Conventional MoS2 (molybdenum disulfide) and/or WS2 have a platelet-like structure that works primarily under shear forces and have low protection under normal and shocking loads,” says Dr. George Diloyan, Nanotech Industrial Solutions’ chief executive officer. “IF-WS2 particles, being spherical and submicron, operate under shear, normal loads and shock. The unique geometry and size make IF-WS2 a new-generation solid lubricant that outperforms legacy MoS2 and WS2.”
For more information, visit www.nisusacorp.com.