What is molybdenum grease for? Molybdenum grease: what is it and where to use it

You can buy molybdenum grease in our store.

Product prices from 300 rub.

Molybdenum grease contains molybdenum disulfide to provide a product with better performance (excellent wear protection) than conventional all-purpose grease can offer. Used in mechanisms where metal parts come into contact under high loads or extreme pressure. Water resistant.

Excellent for use in assemblies where, for example, there is a collision between several sliding parts. It is also possible to process automotive chassis parts such as ball joints and U-joints, as well as agricultural machinery and industrial equipment.

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Molybdenum-sulfur compounds: features

Molybdenum-sulfur complexes are sometimes used in the form of a suspension, but are mostly dissolved in lubricants with a concentration of only a few percent. Molybdenum disulfide (MD) or MoS2, the most common natural form of this metal, is extracted from its ore and then purified for direct addition to lubricants. Particles in the compositions may differ in size (classified into 3 groups).

Due to its geothermal origin, DM is resistant to high temperatures and pressure. This is especially true if small amounts of sulfur are available to react with the iron to form a sulfide layer that is compatible with MoS2 in maintaining a lubricating film.

Composition and characteristics of the lubricant

Unique properties of MoS2 (differences from other solid lubricants):

Low (0.03-0.06) friction coefficient - unlike graphite, is “innate” and not the result of the absorption of films or gases;

High structural affinity with other metals;

Film-forming structure;

Yield strength is higher than 3450 MPa;

Relatively low viscosity;

Stable in contact with most solvents;

Excellent lubricity from cryogenic temperatures to 130˚C.

The combination of molybdate (salt) and water-soluble sulfides can provide both lubrication and corrosion inhibition in cutting fluids and metal forming compounds. Oil-soluble molybdenum-sulfur compounds, such as thiophosphates and thiocarbamates, provide engine protection against wear, oxidation and corrosion. Several commercial enterprises supply these additives to the lubrication industry. Traditionally the product is black.

The ability of MoS2 to function as a lubricant is closely related to the structure of the layers (Fig. 1).


One layer of Mo atoms is “sandwiched” between two layers of sulfur atoms. When DM propagates between two metal parts, molybdenum bonds with each of them through sulfur atoms. A sliding contact is obtained between two weakly interacting outer coatings of sulfur atoms. Thus, the surfaces slide freely in relation to each other (Fig. 2).

Compounds commonly used as oil solubility additives are shown in Fig. 3, and which are used already dissolved in lubricants.

Where is it used?

Lubricants containing MoS2 were first used mainly for processing aerospace and military equipment, and now they are used in a wide range of industries (industrial, transport, agricultural, construction, etc.) and for a wide variety of equipment and machines, where Characterized by significant loads, low speeds, high heat and frequent stop-start cycles. This compound works as a lubricant in vacuum, where graphite fails.

Molybdenum products are recommended for heavily loaded and high impact roller bearings, especially in slow/oscillating motions such as in universal joints and CV joints. If such compounds are used in high-speed bearings, "skid" problems may occur where the support roller does not rotate a full 360 degrees due to reduced friction. This results in flat spots on the roller and shortens its service life.

This compound is added to formulations with almost all thickeners, including: bentonite clay, lithium, lithium 12-hydroxystearate and aluminum complexes, polyurea. It has also proven effective as a performance-enhancing additive in titanium grease, which itself is known for its high mechanical strength.

In general, lubricants contain 1-2% disulfide and the critical parameters for them are load, surface roughness, and speed. For relatively rough metal surfaces, a large disulfide particle size is desirable because large particles fill deep imperfections and form a smooth plane. Less heterogeneous surfaces of medium and fine grains provide better load-bearing capacity at the concentration specified above. On the other hand, very small particles can potentially cause corrosion due to their higher acid number (acidity factor).

In general, an average particle size of about 6 microns (Technical Fine according to the scale of one of the manufacturing companies Climax Molybdenum Company) is the most widely used in lubricants.

These products are used to improve the efficiency of the break-in process for new parts and components, plus to protect load-bearing surfaces under harsh conditions.

Our manager will help you choose the best product specifically for your needs, whom you can contact by phone or request a call back.

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Publication date: 2015-08-20

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Lubricants based on molybdenum disulfide are widespread and in demand in many areas. Molybdenum lubricant is effective in protecting hard-to-reach components (locks, hinges, hinges, etc.), as well as various mechanisms and parts operating under conditions of high loads, temperatures and extreme pressures. Allows you to minimize wear of parts in contact with each other. Indispensable for sliding elements, both heavily loaded and those operating with high shock loads: bearings, CV joints, ball and U-joints, planetary gearboxes, gear-screw (worm) gears operating under valve pressure.

Greases based on molybdenum sulfide form a film that serves as a layer of dry lubricant even after the dispersion medium evaporates, thus causing friction to occur even in emergency conditions and during sudden temperature changes.

Molybdenum grease for wheel bearing

The use of molybdenum grease in a wheel bearing is quite justified; such lubricants have the properties of emergency materials, reduce bearing wear and noise, the service life of such grease usually exceeds the service life of the bearing (more than 100,000 kilometers) and it is enough to apply it once for the entire service life. For wheel bearing lubrication, we recommend IPF EP-3 grease with molybdenum disulfide because:

  • it provides excellent corrosion protection even in the presence of water
  • a dense oil film prevents metal-to-metal friction and eliminates oil starvation due to the fact that it is not squeezed out of the friction zone under load
  • high mechanical stability - the structure does not collapse for a long time even under high pressure and high loads
  • wide range of operating temperatures from minus 40 to plus 180 degrees
  • high dropping point
  • very low coefficient of friction

Origin of MoS 2 and features of operation of molybdenum lubricants.

MoS 2 - molybdenum disulfide. It is a natural compound of geothermal origin, extracted from ore. It looks like black crystals with a fibrous structure. The mined particles undergo a purification process before being added to the lubricant. They leave a gray-green trace during friction, provide high adhesion to various types of metal surfaces, this is ensured by sulfur atoms that give it an affinity for the metal.

Molybdenum greases work as follows:

  • MoS 2 atoms upon contact with the metal are firmly attached to its surface;
  • create a dense layer on the surface in the form of a film, the thickness of which does not exceed 5 microns, this layer itself is a lubricant that prevents the aging of the metal;
  • molybdenum disulfide compounds move between two metal parts and prevent their direct contact;
  • the result of the application is to prevent overheating and reduce the load on mechanisms and components.

Scope of application of molybdenum lubricants

Ready-made grease is in demand when necessary in:

  • increasing the efficiency of running-in of new parts and components;
  • protecting load-bearing planes operating in harsh conditions and giving them anti-scuff properties;
  • preventing premature aging and wear of metal.

Finds application in various industries:

  • in the automotive industry;
  • in agricultural, construction, military and aerospace engineering;
  • in industrial equipment;
  • in machine tool industry.

Distinctive properties of lubricants with molybdenum disulfide

During operation, molybdenum lubricants (with MoS2 in the composition) form a protective microfilm on the contacting surfaces of components and mechanisms, leveling them and preventing scuffing, reducing the temperature during friction.

Features of molybdenum greases:

  • high specific strength and load-bearing capacity;
  • resistance to fretting corrosion, high temperature and pressure;
  • low coefficient of frictional interaction (friction);
  • chemical stability and separation effect;
  • excellent binding properties, as well as extreme pressure and anti-wear.

Molybdenum greases exhibit improved protective properties and are recommended for shock loads - they create an additional layer, which increases hardness and strength, and eliminates the risk of seizing.

Molybdenum lubricants are modern materials that contain ultrafine MoS2 (molybdenum disulfide) powder. Thanks to this, the products are able to significantly minimize wear and acquire improved water resistance, due to which they are actively used where conventional multi-purpose lubricants cannot cope and under conditions of critical and extreme loads.

They are of greatest interest for servicing components and assemblies, the functionality of which involves the interface of several rubbing surfaces and constant shock loads and vibrations. For example, ball joints and U-joints for vehicles and special equipment, wheel bearings, crank drives, rotary tables, transmission mechanisms.

Physicochemical properties of MoS2

Due to its volcanic origin and inorganic nature, this substance is characterized by high thermal-oxidative stability, perfectly withstands extreme pressures and is capable of forming an ultra-thin protective film.

To be used as an additive, the proportion of pure substance must be more than 96%, but compared to other solid lubricants, molybdenum disulfide powder is characterized by:

  • yield strength > 3450 MPa;
  • low viscosity properties;
  • very low friction coefficient µ ≈ 0.03 ÷ 0.06;
  • unique lubricity even in the range of cryogenic and high temperatures.

The substance belongs to the group of transition metals and has a characteristic layered structure. It does not react with solvents, acids and alkalis. The synergy of the sulfide layer and MoS2 provides extremely effective protection against corrosion and wear on steel surfaces. To activate the inhibitory properties and improve the anti-wear properties of lubricants, dithiocarbamic acid derivatives (dithiocarbamines and molybdenum disulfide dithiophosphates) are widely used as additives; moreover, these compounds are characterized by better solubility, and they are often added to motor oil.

Industrial production potential

The first lubricant products containing highly dispersed molybdenum disulfide powder were used in limited quantities and were intended mainly for treating friction pairs of equipment and installations of the military defense complex and space-satellite applications. But a significant reduction in the cost of the process of obtaining this substance has contributed to a radical expansion of the scope of application of molybdenum lubricants.

Today they are widely used in heavy and light industry and transport and demonstrate excellent performance in vacuum conditions and at extremely high pressures. Their use makes it possible to avoid seizure of the contact surfaces of heavily loaded low-speed mechanisms, effectively remove heat from the friction zone and reduce energy costs for starting, reversing and stopping mechanisms operating in intermittent mode.

Molybdenum-containing lubricants are the best alternative to solve the problem of wear and fretting corrosion of bearings exposed to heavy weight and shock loads, vibrations and high temperatures. Compared to analogues, they most effectively contribute to increasing the service life of CV joints and joints and give excellent results when running in the mating surfaces of valve groups. But the key advantage of MoS2 is its compatibility with most thickeners used in modern lubricants, be they ceramic and titanium components or polyurea and Al-complex.

Despite the unique performance characteristics, the selection of materials should be carried out taking into account the speed factor, the class of cleanliness of the friction surface and the load. Thus, for planes with increased and significant roughness, the size of powdered particles of solid components can reach up to 7 microns, which will make it possible to replenish the natural loss of metal most effectively. But for more delicate surfaces, the MoS2 particle size should be about 2 ÷ 3 microns. On average, the proportion of the substance is no more than 2% in each lubricating composition, as practice shows that an unreasonable increase can provoke unwanted oxidation processes.

Among the lubricating greases presented by INTERAUTO, you will find the best option for lubricants containing MoS 2 for various tasks that will correspond to the upcoming loads, temperatures and pressures.

Running-in paste "LIMOL"

Modern production conditions place severe demands on the anti-friction, protective and physico-chemical properties of lubricants and lead to stricter economic justification for their use, since in any area of ​​industry today it is important to minimize time and material costs for equipment maintenance and repair and ensure the longest possible service life parts and assemblies. The use of new lubricant products based on molybdenum disulfide, developed by the Russian company INTERAUTO, allows you to:

  • radically solve the problem of wear of friction pairs;
  • provide a significantly increased lubrication interval;
  • reduce technological downtime and the likelihood of accidents and breakdowns;
  • simplify the process of running in mating surfaces and minimize vibrations and noise.

In tough operating conditions they are practically irreplaceable, as they resist washing out and extrusion, and withstand critical loads and shear deformations. They form super-strong lubricating films on the surfaces of parts with any configuration and protect them from liquid and gaseous aggressive media.

Taking into account the use of molybdenum-containing lubricants in a wide variety of industries and the specific conditions of their use, the INTERAUTO company offers radically new products from this group, developed on the basis of the latest scientific achievements in the field of tribology. All of them have undergone multi-stage testing at production sites and received excellent recommendations from leading engineers.

Moli-DL. Mineral high-temperature lubricant, specially designed for extreme operating conditions involving high loads (up to 7000 N), pressures and temperatures. In addition to molybdenum disulfide, it contains metal powders in ultra-fine form, due to which it has a high load-bearing capacity, prevents stick-slip motion and slipping of parts and thereby ensures the standard value of starting and braking torques and smooth operation of the transmission. Effectively removes heat and prevents the formation of scoring, delamination and burrs on processed parts and completely eliminates the setting of contact surfaces. Simplifies dismantling work and increases the multiplicity of thread make-up.

Molyol. Universal lithium grease containing MoS2 and an original additive complex. Due to this, it acquired unique properties, including the ability to withstand high impact loads and shear deformations and maintain its rheological characteristics in the range from -25 to 150 ˚C, as well as excellent hydrophobicity and adhesion. The use of lubricant has a stable anti-friction and lubrication effect in high-speed and low-speed units. It protects treated surfaces for a long time from contact with atmospheric and condensation moisture and aggressive substances and compounds in liquid and vapor states. Moliol is the optimal solution for lubricating the chassis of vehicles and heavy special equipment: bulldozers, loaders, excavators and asphalt pavers, as well as for servicing equipment in the polymer, wood processing and metallurgical industries. The product is inert to clogging, effectively dampens vibrations and minimizes noise. Operable in damp and dusty environments. It has the properties of an anti-emergency lubricant and improves the running-in of surfaces. The lubricant is recommended for metal/metal friction pairs, but is also effective when processing flexible shafts encased in different polymer materials. It is widely used in printing, the production of wood materials and in lines for packaging bulk construction, washing and abrasive materials.

IPF ER-3. Synthetic lubricant with high anti-scuff and anti-wear properties and an extended operating temperature range. Characterized by excellent colloidal stability, high adhesion rates and resistance to shedding and extrusion. Demonstrates precision resistance to dispersed medium evaporation and inertness to aging and clogging. It has a very long service life and can be used for processing friction pairs of thermal equipment, agricultural processing stations and lines for the production of cement, gypsum and other dispersed building materials. IPF ER-3 perfectly prevents steel rusting, electrical and fretting corrosion. The lubricant is not prone to heat strengthening and is highly water resistant.

How to choose and buy molybdenum grease

To correctly select a lubricant, we recommend contacting Interauto specialists, since the selection of lubricant depends on many factors in the working environment, equipment parameters and frequency of operation. To take into account all these factors, you often need to fill out a questionnaire (to download it, you can click on ), in this case we will select for you not only the most suitable material, but also the optimal cost.

Greases are widely used in cases where the operating conditions of the mechanism preclude the use of conventional oils. Recently, the role of special lubricants has increased significantly, which make it possible to ensure high-performance operation of modern and expensive equipment. There are two main ways to improve the effectiveness of lubricating greases to reduce friction and wear. The first way is the use of chemically active additives that increase the ability of the lubricant to withstand heavy loads. The second way is the use of greases containing fine particles of a special substance or compound (in the form of the finest plate-like inclusions) - molybdenum disulfide, graphite or ceramics. When developing modern high-performance lubricants, Liqui Moly specialists successfully use both of these methods. At relatively low pressure, grease behaves like a solid. But as soon as the pressure increases, the product begins to resemble a liquid in its properties. This is where its main difference from conventional oils lies.

Wide range of lubricating greases

The Liqui Moly company produces various types of lubricants with varying degrees of viscosity that can be used:
  • in cars and trucks;
  • in agricultural machines;
  • in equipment used in the paper, food, clothing, textile industries;
  • in devices used in the household.
A wide range guarantees that you will definitely find a product that will help you effectively solve the problems you face. You will find detailed information about all lubricants of our production on the website. Liqui Moly lubricants are manufactured on both mineral and synthetic bases. They are offered to customers in convenient packaging. In our catalog you will find lubricants that are suitable for individual use in a personal car, in your own household, and can also be used by various service departments. An important advantage of such products is the ability to use them where conventional lubricating oils cannot be applied. The composition of each product is carefully thought out, which allows for a long time to maintain the operation of components and mechanisms at the required level. The developers used various additives to give them anti-corrosion, antioxidant and other properties. Liqui Moly lubricants can be used over a wide temperature range; they are not washed out by cold and hot water, withstand significant pressure, effectively prevent jerking and vibration, and reduce wear when parts rub against each other. Do you have questions about Liqui Moly lubricants? Contact the specialists of our company. They will tell you about the properties of the product, the features of its application, and also help you make a choice.

Molybdenum disulfide (molybdenite), MoS 2 , which is a common natural form of molybdenum, has played a traditional role as a lubricant since the 19th century. At the same time, its single-layer structures became one of the discoveries of the 21st century, along with graphene. They are used to create flexible screens, miniature transistors, filters, opening up many new possibilities for creating the components of tomorrow. Including modern ones, such as molybdenum lubricant.

The hexagonal platelet structure of MoS 2 molecules, composed of a molybdenum atom and two sulfur atoms, creates an armor-like overlapping coating that protects rubbing metal surfaces. Such plates tend to slide over the surface, easily filling microscopic pores in the metal. As a result, metal surfaces move freely relative to each other, being reliably protected by a layer of molybdenite.

Single-layer structure of the basic elements of molybdenum grease:

  • reduces friction of metal elements to a minimum;
  • provides long-lasting protection against washing and abrasion;
  • protects the vehicle’s suspension components, steering system and any other moving chassis elements;
  • used in moving parts in automotive and industrial vehicles operating in wet environments, such as cranes, forklifts, gantries, lifts, etc.

Composition and characteristics

Molybdenum disulfide has a sandwich-like structure of graphite. Spatially parallel layers of sulfur and molybdenum S-Mo-S three atoms thick are weakly bound by van der Waals forces. Therefore, the crystals easily move along the basal plane. As a result, the substance acquires lubricating properties. The layered structure makes it possible to obtain quasi-two-dimensional crystals similar to graphene crystals.

On the surface of the metal, molybdenite creates a thin 5-micron film in which the molybdenum atom is located between the sulfur atom captured by the metal and the free sulfur atom. The resulting three-layer nano-coating has one layer of sulfur atoms, which strongly adheres to the metal surface due to its high affinity for metals. Then comes a layer of molybdenum and a layer of quasi-free sulfur atoms.

The contacting surfaces coated with lubricant do not rub directly against each other, but form between them a layer of two outer layers of sulfur with low mutual adhesion. At the same time, the inner layer of sulfur firmly adheres to the metal surface, increasing its wear resistance.

The substance itself is insoluble either in water or in dilute acids.

As a result, molybdenum disulfide is a fine powder with particle sizes from 1 to 100 microns - a dry lubricant. It was first introduced in the 1940s by the chemical company Dow Corning under the trade name "Molykote", which remains synonymous with molybdenum grease.

Having film-forming properties, molybdenite:

  • retains its properties in the absence of moisture up to temperatures of 400 ° C;
  • oxidizes in air at 315 °C. In the absence of oxygen, use is possible up to 1100 °C;
  • has lubricating properties in inert atmospheres and high vacuum conditions where other conventional lubricants fail;
  • maintains lubricating properties under extreme pressure.

MoS 2 is used as a dry additive in lubricants, oils, polymers, paints and other coatings. It comes in the form of a suspension or serves as an additive in other lubricants. MoS 2 particle sizes vary depending on lubricant requirements: 90 nm, 1.5 microns, 4.5 microns and 12.5 microns.

Molybdenum lubricant is available in the form of sprays in aerosol tubes, liquids and thick plate materials. Lamellar lubricants form a film that does not lose its properties even if the dispersion medium evaporates, which is important in emergency situations and temperature surges.

The uniqueness of molybdenum lubricants is determined by the following factors:

  • low friction coefficient - 0.03-0.06;
  • high affinity for metals, respectively, good adhesion;
  • thin film structure – up to 5 microns;
  • optimal strength, yield strength of about 3450 MPa;
  • low viscosity, which reduces energy losses in the same rolling bearings;
  • increased temperature resistance – maintains efficiency from cryogenic temperatures up to 315 °C;
  • chemical stability when using solvents;
  • preservation of lubricating properties in a vacuum, unlike graphite;
  • physico-chemical stability, causing an anti-corrosion effect - withstands interaction with alkaline solutions, hydrochloric, sulfuric and hydrofluoric acids;
  • alloying properties;
  • excellent extreme pressure and anti-wear properties.

Application

Lubricants based on molybdenum disulfide are in demand for solving a number of problems when commonly used substances are not effective - under conditions of high temperatures, high pressures, and shock loads.

Thanks to their unique extreme properties, they began their victorious march in the aerospace and military fields.

Nowadays, high-temperature molybdenum lubricants are used in the automotive industry, machine tool industry, agriculture, construction - wherever there are significant shock loads, low speeds, high temperatures, and frequent stop-starts.

A big plus is the ability to use them in a vacuum, where graphite cannot cope.

Lubricants with molybdenum are good for bearings, both roller bearings - sliding and rolling, and for wheel bearings. Especially when there is significant shock loading and slow oscillatory movements, which is typical for universal joints.

They are not recommended for high-speed bearings due to the risk of skidding due to reduced friction. The support roller begins to slip, abrasions appear on the surface, which leads to a reduction in service life. High-precision rolling bearings are also sensitive to the settling of molybdenite particles in the gaps.

For wheel bearings, molybdenum grease is an ideal option. Its one-time application is enough for the entire service life of the hub - up to 100 thousand kilometers. It protects against corrosion, reduces friction and increases mechanical strength. The only requirement is the tightness of the bearing, since the ingress of moisture leads to the decomposition of molybdenite into sulfuric acid and solid particles of its oxide, which will sharply increase the wear of parts.

Molybdenum grease is good in various vehicles, SUVs, cars, motorcycles. It provides superior service to tow pins, racks, pinions, fifth wheels, steering gears, ball joints - anywhere sliding surfaces impact. Reduces friction, increases impermeability to moisture, protects against corrosion, and prevents jamming. As a result, the smooth running of the mechanisms increases.

The use of molybdenum lubricant in a car is somewhat controversial. It is not recommended for use in engines. This is due to the structure of the substance, which is a suspension of insoluble molybdenite particles in the liquid fraction. Therefore, they get on engine parts such as piston rings, crankshafts, etc. causes coking. As a result, hot gases can escape from the combustion chamber and mix with the engine oil, causing it to oxidize.

Also, various detergent additives, for example, from calcium or alkaline solutions, have time to chemically interact with molybdenum before the lubricant forms a protective film. In addition, due to the large molecules formed as a result of this reaction, the oil filter quickly becomes clogged. As a result, the entire engine system becomes contaminated.

Definitely, molybdenum lubricant, when used correctly, is an excellent tool that can significantly increase the service life of car parts operating in extreme conditions.

The choice of molybdenum grease is due to a number of its unique properties. It is indispensable when you need:

  • break in new parts, give them anti-seize properties;
  • protect the surfaces of parts in difficult and contrasting atmospheric conditions;
  • prevent premature wear/aging of metal;
  • protect friction units under extreme mechanical loads.

Lubricant with molybdenum disulfide is produced as an independent compound and as an admixture to lithium and graphite lubricants. The base element is organic or synthetic oil, a soap filler for thickening, and an additive made from molybdenite itself.

The most widespread release is in the form of a lamellar mass - various ointments. Lubricants in the form of sprays in tubes are gaining popularity. In aerosol form, it covers the surface with a thin, uniform layer, which increases the uniformity of the lubricating film and reduces material consumption.





When choosing molybdenum grease, remember that molybdenite particles are mainly used with a size of 6 microns.

For rough metal surfaces, a large particle size is desirable; they effectively smooth out defects. For smoother surfaces, it is better to use a filling of smaller particles that increase slip.

Therefore, when selecting molybdenum grease, consider the purpose for which it is needed. Only then will its use be an excellent option for increasing the lifespan of the parts and mechanisms used!

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Molybdenum disulfide is essentially a common anti-wear additive, widely used in technical branches of modern industry and production.

Purpose of a chemical compound

The most well-known mechanisms that require the additional influence of such chemical lubricants are represented by automobile engines, the functioning of which is often characterized by rather extreme conditions.

Specialized suspensions based on molybdenum disulfide, included in lubricants, envelop parts of mechanisms that are in direct interaction with each other with a thin layer of softening film with an anti-friction effect. This made it possible to create a whole range of topical anti-friction additives with molybdenum disulfide.

The use of such oils with molybdenum disulfide allows you to avoid unwanted contacts of mechanisms and rough relief surfaces. As a result, contact processes are carried out along the stripping shells. Motor oil with molybdenum disulfide guarantees:

  • . a pronounced reduction in the friction that arises;
  • . reduction in the magnitude and degree of wear;
  • . normalization of excessively high temperatures of components due to constant friction of elements;
  • . Effective scuffing prevention.

Historical facts of obtaining and determining effectiveness

One of the main properties of molybdenum disulfide, known since the beginning of the 16th century, is its highly effective lubricity.

To date, numerous studies have been carried out in the chemical industry, which have made it possible to develop and expand the use of this compound, namely molybdenum disulfide, as a reliable lubricant material.

The official discovery of MoS2, and this is the designation adopted for this compound in the field of chemistry, belongs to German citizen Hans Henle. At the moment, this name is also known because Henle is the legal founder of the giant company that produces Liqui Moly oils.


If you pay attention to the brand name, it becomes obvious that the company got its name thanks to molybdenum, since if you translate the brand name into Russian, it means liquid molybdenum.

Features of MoS2 connection

It has long been established that molybdenum disulfide is quite similar to graphite, which is manifested in the presence of its hexagonal structure.

It is worth noting that the distance between atoms in the closest possible arrangement in the lattice is equal to:

  • . between molybdenum atoms = 2.41 a;
  • . between sulfur atoms = 3.0 a.

The temperature regime conducive to the onset of the oxidation process of MoS* corresponds to a level of 350 °C. But it is worth considering that, when under vacuum conditions, molybdenum disulfide can withstand temperatures up to 1000 °C.

Brief description of MoS2

The production of natural molybdenum disulfide occurs during the processing of molybdenum luster formed during the extraction of copper ore.

MoS2 is characterized by the following features:

  • . the presence of a steel gray tint;
  • . the density indicator of the substance is 4,800 kg/m3;
  • . Friction K decreases significantly with increasing specific load and reaches 0.02;
  • . In dry form, it is a crystalline powder, where each crystal has a needle-type structure.

Molybdenum disulfide is also successfully used as an additional additive in the composition of technical lubricants, both plastic and liquid categories.

Areas of application of lubricants with molybdenum disulfide

Due to its main qualitative characteristics based on the results of scientific research and testing, molybdenum disulfide is in fairly high demand in such areas as:

  • . An effective anti-wear additive for automobile and other engines with pronounced properties to mitigate friction;
  • . The use of such connections in those mechanisms where it is necessary to ensure maximum protection of working contacting elements in order to prevent premature abrasion and overloads;
  • . Almost the entire area of ​​the mechanical engineering industry, where the use of molybdenum suspensions has been marked since the launch and introduction into production of hinge systems and mechanisms.

The use of dmi molybdenum disulfide is quite widespread. This substance is a fine powder, produced and sold as molybdenum disulfide under the brand name DMI 7. This category of lubricants also provides improved sliding between layers of sulfur in the composition, due to increased adhesion to any type of metal.

The decisive factor in the effectiveness of the developed modern additives is:

  • . the presence of a characteristic layered structure;
  • . low levels of binding energy between the layers involved, as well as an increased degree of adhesion on the surface of friction units.

The need for use in automatic mechanisms

The leading position in the production and supply of such additives, as several years ago, belongs to the above-mentioned company “Liqui Molu”. One of the company’s popular products is, for example, LIQUI MOLY 3520, which is a CV joint lubricant with molybdenum disulfide, sold under the brand name LM 47 Langzeitfett + MoS2.

It has long been studied and proven that such a technical lubricant, which contains molybdenum disulfide in sufficient quantities, is highly effective when processing bearing mechanisms and CV joints.

In modern methods of maintenance of mechanisms and automated systems, a group of universal-purpose lithium lubricants has become widespread, in which dispersed molybdenum disulfide is contained in an amount equal to 3%, and the particle size is defined in the range from 0.65 to 0.75 µm.

Despite their excellent resistance to water and dampness, prevention and protection from oxidative phenomena, corrosive formations, and wear protection, lubricants with molybdenum disulfide are quite affordable. The cost, for example, of the same Liqui Moly lubricant will range from 250 to 550 rubles per 250 ml tube, depending on the specific brand and purpose of the additive.



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