When using any specialized tools, you want to make sure that they’re running smoothly and efficiently at all times. While wear and tear are inevitable, using the right accessories and lubricants can go a long way toward extending the life of the tool and ensuring you don’t have to spend as much time and money on maintenance and upkeep.
For hydraulic hammers and chisels, finding the right grease is imperative. Since these tools have moving parts that need fluid motion, having the proper ingredients will ensure correct operation at all times. Today we want to break down hammer grease - what it is, how it works, and why it’s so vital to your operation.
What is Hammer Grease Made Of?
No matter what kind of grease you get, it’s likely a combination of heavy oil and a soap-like additive. The soap is there to thicken the grease and ensure that it stays in place while the tool is working. If you use the wrong ingredients, it could impact your hammer and cause it to wear down faster. Not all soaps and oils are the same, so it’s crucial that you pick the right one for your needs.
Usually, hammer and chisel grease include a lithium or molybdenum base, as well as some additional metals, like copper, aluminum, or graphite. The percentages in the grease can make a difference, especially when talking about heat tolerance.
As you already know, Hydraulic hammers and chisels can get incredibly hot with repeated use, so you need to make sure that your grease is appropriately rated. If you get some that can’t stand up to the right temperatures, then the grease will melt and leak out of the tool. Less grease will cause friction, which can overheat the system, as well as lead to damage, such as fractures or dents in the hammer.
Never Use Standard Grease or Oil
If you’re not familiar with the properties contained in hammer grease, you may mistakenly believe that you can use any version and be okay. Some users decide this because of the cost difference, or because they already have other greases and don’t want to buy something else.
Unfortunately, using grease that isn’t formulated for hydraulic hammers or chisels will cost you a lot more in the long run. Not only can it damage your tool, but the grease can melt and create a mess that you’ll have to clean up each time you run the machine.
The other thing to keep in mind is the formula and heat tolerance of your hammer grease. Even though each variety is technically hammer grease, that doesn’t mean it’ll suit your needs. Some options are better at high-temperatures, and others are better for low-impact jobs. Finding the best one for your work is imperative, and it will save you a lot of potential headaches in the future.