About Organoclay Grease Thickener
Grease grade organoclay is an organophilic bentonite thickener used to make non-soap lubricating greases from mineral and many synthetic base oils. Clay-based greases are chosen for high-temperature and intermittent high-heat service because the thickener does not melt in the way metallic soap thickeners do.
In grease making, the organoclay is dispersed in base oil and activated with a polar additive such as acetone, methanol or propylene carbonate, often with a small amount of water. Intensive milling or homogenising then separates the treated platelets so they form a dense, stable network that traps the oil. The result is a smooth, buttery grease whose structure is largely independent of temperature, so it can be used in kiln car bearings, conveyor and oven chains, and other equipment running hot. Additive packages for extreme pressure, anti-wear and corrosion protection are added in the usual way, although compatibility with clay should be checked.
Obsidian Minerals supplies this grade with controlled moisture and fineness, which helps grease makers achieve consistent yield and penetration from batch to batch. Every lot is tested in our NABL-accredited laboratory and shipped with a Certificate of Analysis, Technical Data Sheet and MSDS/SDS. We can adapt the grade to specific base oils and processing equipment with customers, and samples are available on request for pilot batches.
Typical specifications
| Parameter | Typical Value | Test Method |
|---|---|---|
| Moisture (105 °C) | ≤ 3.5 % | Internal method |
| Loss on ignition (1000 °C) | 35–45 % | Internal method |
| Fineness, passing 75 µm | ≥ 95 % | Dry sieve, internal method |
| Specific gravity | Approx. 1.7 | Internal method |
| Typical thickener content in finished grease | 5–10 % | — |
| Appearance | Cream to off-white fine powder | Visual |
Typical values for guidance. Guaranteed limits are stated on the Technical Data Sheet and batch CoA. Grease penetration and yield depend on base oil, activator, water content and milling conditions.
Key features & benefits
No conventional melting point
Greases thickened with grease grade organoclay do not melt in the way soap-thickened greases do, so they hold structure in equipment that runs hot or sees periodic temperature spikes.
Wide base oil compatibility
Disperses in paraffinic and naphthenic mineral oils and in many synthetic base fluids, giving grease makers flexibility to build products for different viscosity grades and operating conditions.
Water resistance
The organophilic surface repels water, helping clay-based greases resist wash-out in damp environments and maintain their consistency where equipment is exposed to splash or humidity.
Simple, low-temperature processing
Clay greases are made by dispersion and milling rather than a high-temperature saponification reaction, which can shorten batch cycles and reduce the energy needed in the kettle.
Applications
High-temperature bearing greases
Used to thicken greases for kiln car wheels, dryer and oven bearings, and other slow to medium speed bearings operating at temperatures where many soap greases soften or run out.
Chain and conveyor lubricants
Used in greases for oven chains, conveyor systems and sliding parts in hot process lines, including steel, glass and ceramic plants, where the lubricant must stay in place.
Open gear and specialty greases
Serves as the thickener for open gear compounds, valve greases and other specialty products that need high structural stability and good adhesion to metal surfaces.
Usage & handling
- Typical thickener content is 5–10 % of the finished grease, depending on the target NLGI consistency and base oil viscosity.
- Disperse the organoclay in base oil, add the polar activator, commonly 30–50 % of the clay weight, then mill or homogenise until penetration stabilises.
- Add performance additives after the gel has formed and check compatibility, as some acidic additives can weaken clay structure.
- Store bags in a dry, covered area; moisture pick-up can change activator demand and yield.
Packaging & supply
- 25 kg or 50 kg HDPE or paper bags
- 1 MT or 1.2 MT FIBC jumbo bags for grease plants
- Custom packaging on request
Frequently asked questions
Why choose an organoclay grease thickener over a soap thickener?
Organoclay thickeners give greases without a conventional melting point, so structure is retained at high operating temperatures. They also provide good water resistance and are processed by dispersion rather than saponification. Soap greases may still suit high-speed bearings or applications needing specific additive response, so the choice depends on the duty.
How much grease grade organoclay is needed per batch?
Finished clay greases typically contain about 5 to 10 % organoclay. Lower levels give softer greases, while higher levels produce firmer consistencies. The exact figure depends on base oil type and viscosity, activator choice and the efficiency of your mill. A pilot batch measuring worked penetration is the reliable way to set the level.
Which activator should be used for organoclay grease?
Acetone, methanol and propylene carbonate are common polar activators, often with a small amount of water to improve dispersion. They are typically used at around 30 to 50 % of the clay weight. Volatile activators may be stripped during processing. Choose based on plant safety, odour requirements and the yield achieved in your trials.
Can grease grade organoclay be used with synthetic base oils?
Many synthetic base fluids, including polyalphaolefins and certain esters, can be thickened with organoclay, although activation and yield may differ from mineral oil. Highly polar synthetics can be more demanding. Send your base oil details and we will suggest a starting formulation and supply samples on request for evaluation.