What makes the difference in lubricity of machine oil or grease vs something like olive oil?

Question

Of course stickiness can be a factor, but I’m curious about how the substances differ to make one more slippery than the other?

In: 3

Answer 1

There are a couple different factors you need to consider when choosing a lubricant for any application first and foremost is the forces being applied. Next is the viscosity. If the lubricant is too thick then it will actively slow down the machinery you’re trying to lubricate. If it’s too thin then it won’t provide significant enough lubrication. Finally you need to consider operating temperature. Engine oil can handle the high heats of an engine block while olive oil or any other cooking oil would break down into black carbon deposits (like you find in your oven) rapidly under such heat.

There’s also a bunch of additives to most engine oils that help with oil life and protection for corrosion.