The Best Lubricant Oils to Reduce Friction and Wear While Woodworking

The Best Lubricant Oil Buying Guide

As much as you’d expect your machines to function whenever you need them, the reality of the situation is different. Machines need timely cleaning and maintenance to perform well. If you don’t keep your woodworking machines lubricated, debris and grit will be the least of your worries, so let’s explore what to look out for before buying a lubricant oil and how they keep your machines running in tip-top shape!

What is lubricant oil?

Lubricant oils are specifically designed to reduce friction and wear between moving parts in various types of machinery and equipment. Its primary function is to create a thin film between surfaces in relative motion, thereby preventing direct contact between them.

Why do you need lubricant oil?

Your tools will continue to work well if you address their needs. Here are a few benefits of applying lubricant oil to your machine regularly: 

Reduces Friction

Lubricant oil minimizes frictional forces by separating moving parts and shielding metal surfaces from direct contact and abrasion, reducing heat generation and wear on components.

Prevents Corrosion

Woodworking machines are more likely to accumulate dust and debris. If you leave your machine unclean for too long, the rust will damage its working elements, leading to stalling or further damage. 

Sealing and Contaminant Control

Some lubricant oils act as a sealant to prevent leakage and contamination by dust, dirt, and water.

What to Consider Before You Buy a Lubricant Oil

Know Your Equipment

Different machinery and vehicles require specific types of lubricants. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations or consult the owner’s manual to determine the right viscosity and type of oil.

Viscosity

Choose oils with appropriate viscosity ratings based on your machinery’s needs. Oils with viscosity grades like ISO VG 32 or ISO VG 46 are commonly used; these grades indicate the oil’s thickness and flow characteristics, with lower numbers indicating thinner oils.

Lubricant Type

Lubricants come in various types, such as synthetic, conventional (mineral), and blends. Synthetic oils perform better in extreme temperatures and under heavy loads but can be more expensive. Mineral oils are cheaper but may not perform as well in extreme conditions.

Additives

Some lubricants come with additives like detergents, dispersants, and anti-wear agents. These additives can improve performance and protect your equipment from wear and corrosion.

Intended Use

Depending on their composition, some oils are more effective in moisturizing or loosening the moving parts. Meanwhile, others have a better chance of preventing rust formation on your machine’s crucial parts. Some lubricants can even remove or dissolve contaminants as well as lubricating the parts.

How to Lubricate Your Woodworking Machines

Identify Lubrication Points: Consult your machine’s manual for specific lubrication points. These include moving parts like bearings, joints, slides, and gears.

Choose the Right Lubricant: Select a lubricant suitable for woodworking machines. Typically, you’ll use non-drip oils or greases, which provide good adhesion and resist dust and debris.

Clean the Surfaces: Before applying new lubricant, clean the surfaces thoroughly to remove old grease, dust, and debris. This ensures better lubricant adherence and prevents contaminants from affecting the machine’s performance.

Apply Lubricant: Use a small brush or applicator to apply the lubricant precisely to the identified points. Avoid over-lubricating.

Operate the Machine: After lubricating, operate the machine through its full range of motions to distribute the lubricant evenly across moving parts.

Monitor and Reapply: Monitor the condition of the lubricant regularly. Depending on how often you use it and the environmental conditions, you may need to reapply the lubricant periodically.