NLGI Grease Grade Chart
NLGI grades describe how stiff a grease is, from fluid (000) to block (6). They are measured by cone penetration on a worked sample (ASTM D217).
| NLGI grade | Worked penetration (0.1 mm) | Looks like | Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|
| 000 | 445–475 | Very fluid | Enclosed gearboxes and centralized systems that need a semi-fluid grease |
| 00 | 400–430 | Fluid | Centralized lubrication systems, enclosed gears |
| 0 | 355–385 | Very soft | Centralized systems, cold climates |
| 1 | 310–340 | Soft | Low temperatures, long pumping lines, some bearings |
| 2 | 265–295 | Like peanut butter | The most common grade: rolling bearings, chassis, general greasing |
| 3 | 220–250 | Firm | High-speed bearings, vertical shafts, some motor bearings |
| 4 | 175–205 | Very firm | High-speed, low-load applications |
| 5 | 130–160 | Hard | Special applications |
| 6 | 85–115 | Block grease | Open journal bearings run with block grease |
Penetration ranges per ASTM D217 / NLGI. Higher penetration means a softer grease.
What does NLGI 2 mean?
NLGI 2 is a consistency grade. A worked sample lets a standard cone sink 265 to 295 tenths of a millimeter (ASTM D217). It feels about like peanut butter and is the most common industrial grease grade.
Does NLGI grade tell me how good a grease is?
No. The grade only describes how stiff the grease is. Performance depends on the base oil, its viscosity, the thickener and the additives.
What NLGI grade do HUSKEY™ greases come in?
HUSKEY greases are standard NLGI 2. NLGI 00, 0 and 1 are available on request for centralized lubrication systems.
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