The Rise of Specialty Lubricants for Electric Vehicles

Ensuring Reliable Performance with Advanced Contact  Greases 

The rapid adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) is transforming the automotive landscape and  challenging lubricant manufacturers, lubricant suppliers, and lubricant distributors to  innovate. While traditional industrial lubricants and high-performance lubricants have long  been essential for internal combustion engines, EVs require a new generation of specialty  lubricants and custom lubricant solutions-particularly for electrical contacts, which face  unique operational stresses. 

Why Contact Lubricants Matter in EVs 

In electric vehicles, electrical contacts are critical for battery terminals, switches, rotary and  sliding contacts, and turret turners. These components are prone to issues like silicon  migration, carbon residue buildup, and heavy arcing-problems that conventional greases often  exacerbate. Specialty greases and synthetic lubricants designed for EVs must not only  lubricate mechanical surfaces but also enhance electrical conductivity, prevent corrosion, and  resist moisture. 

Key Challenges for EV Contact Lubrication: 

∙ Open-circuit resistance (OCR): Caused by conductive wear debris when contacts  are open. 

∙ Current drop issues: Debris can impede current flow when contacts are closed. ∙ Heavy arcing: Conventional greases often fail to suppress arcing, risking switch  performance. 

∙ Silicon migration and carbon residue: These lead to unreliable connections and  increased maintenance. 

The Evolution of High-Performance Lubricants for EVs 

As EV technology advances, the demand for innovative lubricants is growing. Since 2018,  only a handful of specialty lubricant manufacturers have introduced products specifically for  electric vehicles. Many OEMs still use lubricants designed for traditional vehicles, but the  need for differentiated, EV-specific solutions is clear. 

MOSIL’s EC Series Contact Greases: 

MOSIL Lubricants, a leading specialty oil manufacturer, has responded by developing the EC  Series-synthetic, silicone-free contact greases that offer: 

∙ Excellent electrical conductivity 

∙ Resistance to silicon migration and carbon residue 

∙ Inert, non-carbonizing formulations 

∙ Superior penetration and coating properties 

∙ Moisture resistance and corrosion inhibition 

∙ Reliable performance from -40°C to 150°C

These specialty greases are ideal for battery terminals, switches, and all types of electrical  contacts in EVs, ensuring optimal conductivity and long-term reliability. 

Application & Industry-Specific Solutions 

∙ Lubricants for the automotive industry: EVs require advanced contact greases,  synthetic grease, and PTFE grease for both electrical and mechanical components. ∙ Lubricants for food processing, textile machinery, mining equipment, marine  

applications, and metalworking: MOSIL offers a wide range of industrial  lubricants, high-temperature lubricants, low-temperature lubricants, biodegradable  lubricants, NSF-approved lubricants, and environmentally friendly lubricants for these  sectors. 

∙ Product-specific needs: From chain lubricants, gear oils, hydraulic fluids,  compressor oils, to anti-seize compounds, MOSIL and other bulk lubricant suppliers  deliver comprehensive solutions. 

Best Practices: Cleaning and Application 

Before applying contact greases, thorough cleaning of electrical contacts is essential. MOSIL  SPRAY-18, a cleaner-cum-degreaser, effectively removes dust, dirt, and old grease, ensuring  optimal lubricant performance. 

Sourcing and Customization 

∙ Buy industrial lubricants online: Access a broad portfolio of specialty lubricants  from trusted lubricant suppliers in India/Mumbai and worldwide. 

∙ Custom lubricant formulation: Work with manufacturers for OEM lubricant  solutions and private label lubricants tailored to your requirements. 

∙ Bulk lubricant suppliers: Ensure consistent supply for large-scale operations. Technical Support and Compliance 

∙ Lubricant application guides and lubricant safety data sheets (SDS): Essential for  safe and effective use. 

∙ Lubricant technical support: Partner with suppliers offering expert advice and  troubleshooting. 

∙ Lubricant testing and analysis: Regular monitoring ensures product integrity and  equipment protection. 

∙ Lubricant storage and handling best practices: Maintain lubricant quality and  prevent contamination. 

The Benefits of Synthetic Lubricants for EVs 

∙ Extended service life and reduced maintenance 

∙ Enhanced electrical and thermal conductivity 

∙ Superior protection against corrosion and wear 

∙ Compatibility with evolving EV designs and OEM requirements

The Future of Lubrication in Electric Vehicles 

With the EV market expanding rapidly, the lubricant industry is entering a period of  transition. Innovations in additive and base oil technology are leading to advanced, extended life products. As OEMs demand more customized solutions, the role of specialty lubricants in  e-motor and battery cooling applications will only grow. 

Conclusion 

The shift to electric vehicles is driving unprecedented innovation in the lubricant sector.  Specialty lubricants, synthetic greases, and high-performance contact greases are essential for  reliable, efficient, and safe EV operation. Whether you’re a manufacturer, distributor, or end user, partnering with leading lubricant suppliers and industrial grease suppliers ensures you  have access to the latest custom lubricant solutions, technical support, and industry best  practices.