Lubricant Grease Grades Explained — NLGI 1, 2, 3
GVH Editorial • 3/19/2026
NLGI numbers refer to grease consistency. NLGI 0 is semi-fluid (used in central lubrication systems). NLGI 1 is soft (cold climate). NLGI 2 is the universal standard for Indian conditions — pin joints, U-joints, wheel bearings, pivot points. NLGI 3 is firm (high-speed bearings). EP (Extreme Pressure) additives protect under shock loads — JCB pins and bushes need EP2. Don't mix lithium-complex grease with calcium-based — they separate. A 1 kg pack of HP EP2 (₹320) covers about 80 grease nipples. Use a quality grease gun and ALWAYS wipe the nipple before pumping.