Gear oils Manufacturers online

Gear oils are special lubricants that are used in mechanical transmissions to minimize friction, reduce wear and improve heat dissipation.

They play a decisive role in the performance and longevity of transmission components.

Below you will find the function and types of gear oils, an overview of their use and information on change intervals:

How gear oils work:

Transmission oils fulfill several important tasks:

1. Reduction of friction between moving parts.
2. Protect against wear by forming a protective film on metal surfaces.
3. Dissipation of heat generated by friction.
4. Prevention of rust formation and oxidation.
5. Cleaning function by binding dirt and deposits.

Types of gear oils:

Transmission oils can be differentiated according to various criteria:

According to viscosity (SAE classes):

1. Low-viscosity oils (e.g. SAE 75W-80): Low viscosity, for modern manual transmissions.
2. High-viscosity oils (e.g. SAE 80W-90 or 85W-140): For heavily loaded transmissions.

According to API classification (protection level):

1. API GL-4: For normal manual transmissions and axle drives.
2. API GL-5: For highly loaded hypoid transmissions with increased pressure protection.
3. API MT-1: Especially for commercial vehicle transmissions without synchronization.

According to base oil type:

1. Mineral gear oils: Classic lubricants with stable performance.
2. Synthetic gear oils: Higher temperature resistance, longer change intervals.
3. Semi-synthetic oils: Mixture of mineral and synthetic oil with improved properties.

Use of gear oils:

Gear oils are used in various applications:

1. Manual transmissions:
Use of API GL-4 or manufacturer-specific oils.

2. Automatic transmissions (ATF):
Special ATF oils with optimized properties.

3. Differential gearboxes:
Mostly API GL-5 oils for high pressure loads.

4. Industrial gearboxes:
Use of synthetic or mineral oils with additives.

Change intervals for gear oils:

• For passenger car transmissions every 60,000-100,000 km (depending on manufacturer).
• In commercial vehicles between 80,000 and 250,000 km, depending on the load.
• In industrial transmissions, the change depends on the operating conditions and maintenance specifications.

Gear oils are essential for the function and service life of transmissions. The right choice and regular maintenance are crucial to prevent damage and maximize efficiency.

Here are the most important aspects to look out for when buying gear oils:

Purchasing gear oils requires careful analysis of various factors to ensure optimal lubrication, longevity and efficiency of gearboxes.

• Before making a purchase decision, the specific requirements of the machines or vehicles must be carefully examined.
• The transmission oil must meet the requirements of the respective manufacturer (e.g. VW, Mercedes-Benz, ZF, MAN).
• The approvals such as MB 235.8, VW TL 52182, ZF TE-ML 11B should be observed.
• The information in manuals or the maintenance specifications are decisive.
• SAE viscosity classes: e.g. 75W-80, 80W-90, 85W-140 (temperature and flow behavior).
• API classes: API GL-4 for synchronized transmissions, API GL-5 for heavily loaded axle drives.
• Special specifications must be observed for automatic transmissions (ATF oils).
• EP additives (Extreme Pressure) increase wear protection under high loads.
• Anti-foaming additives prevent bubble formation and air pockets.
• Corrosion inhibitors protect metal parts from rust and oxidation.
• Friction modifiers are important additives for automatic transmissions and differentials with a locking function.
• Different types of base oil are required depending on the area of application:
• Mineral oil is inexpensive, but has shorter change intervals.
• Synthetic oil is more resistant to temperature and oxidation and allows longer drain intervals.
• Semi-synthetic oil is a mixture of both types and offers improved performance.
• Synthetic oil is recommended for extreme temperatures or high mechanical loads.
• A professional purchase also requires an economic consideration.
• What is the price-performance ratio?
• The price per liter/kilogram. Make a direct comparison between the suppliers.
• Higher-quality oils extend the change intervals and thus reduce maintenance costs.
• Also consider minimum order quantities and transportation costs.
• Which packaging units make sense: Smaller containers (1L, 5L), larger ones (20L, 60L, 200L drums or IBC containers).
• Pay attention to certifications and quality standards:
• ISO certifications (e.g. ISO 9001 for quality management).
• Test reports and laboratory analyses for consistent oil quality.
• OEM approvals by vehicle and machine manufacturers.
• Short delivery times and high availability are important for ongoing operations.
• Discuss the possibility of just-in-time deliveries to reduce storage costs.
• Consider biodegradable or environmentally friendly alternatives.
• Also consider recycling programs for used oil disposal and sustainable packaging solutions.

Purchasing gear oils requires sound technical analysis, economic evaluation and careful supplier selection. Paying attention to high-quality products, the right specifications and efficient logistics can reduce operating costs, extend the service life of gearboxes and ensure smooth operations.

Gear oils can be purchased from various suppliers. Comprehensive information about manufacturers and suppliers of Gear oils from all over the world can be found on Exportpages.