In food production facilities, safe and certified food-grade greases should be preferred for all moving parts with a risk of food contact. Here is a detailed guide:
1. Types of Grease Usable in Food Machinery
A. Food Grade Grease
- NSF H1 or FDA 21 CFR 178.3570 approved
- Safe against food contact risk
- Can be used in bearings, chains, gears, and sealed machinery
B. High-Temperature Food Grade Grease
- For ovens, baking, and sterilization lines
- Resistant up to 200–250°C
- Compatible with metal and seal materials
C. Chain and Gear Food Grade Grease
- Provides long-term friction and wear protection for chains and gears
- Adhesive and water-resistant formula
- Compatible with CIP and damp environments
D. Soft Food Grade Grease
- For sealed machinery, piston and valve mechanisms
- Seal compatible, low hardness
- Used in sensitive areas with food contact
E. Multi-Purpose Food Grade Grease
- For general bearings, journals, and moving parts
- Medium consistency, resistant to standard temperature ranges
- Can be used in most food line equipment
2. Selection Criteria
-
Food Grade Approval
- Must be NSF H1 or FDA certified
- Safe for all parts with food contact risk
-
Operating Temperature
- Normal temperature (room–120°C) or high temperature (120–250°C)
-
Material Compatibility
- Must not react with metal, plastic, and seals
-
Chemical Resistance
- Resistant to water, steam, and cleaning chemicals
- Compatible with CIP systems
-
Viscosity and Consistency
- Chain: fluid and adhesive
- Bearing: medium consistency
- Sealed machinery: soft consistency
3. Examples of Application Areas
| Equipment | Recommended Grease | Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Bearings | Multi-purpose food grade grease | Medium consistency, general bearing protection |
| Chains | Food grade chain oil | Adhesive, resistant to water and cleaning agents |
| Gears | Food grade gear grease | Long-term wear and friction protection |
| Sealed machinery | Soft food grade grease | Seal compatible, for sensitive mechanisms |
| Oven / Baking lines | High-temperature food grade grease | Resistant to 200–250°C |
4. Risks of Incorrect Grease Use
- Non-food grade grease → food contamination
- Grease not suitable for high temperature → melting and equipment damage
- Material incompatibility → degradation of seals and plastic parts
- Incorrect viscosity → wear in bearings or chains
You can contact us for technical support on solutions suitable for your business.
