Power Generation Case Study: GB Unigrease® LXEP1 & 1749

The Challenge

A customer operating within the power generation sector required a lubricant solution that would provide reliable protection for high-performance wind turbine components operating under demanding conditions. Existing products were causing pitting and corrosion on expensive turbine components, creating concerns around long-term reliability and maintenance costs.

Excessive wear on precision gearbox, blade route and alternator coupling components was leading to reduced component life and increased maintenance downtime. With replacement parts and service engineer visits carrying significant costs, the customer wanted to reduce unnecessary maintenance periods while maintaining optimum turbine performance.

The objective was to find a lubrication solution capable of maintaining an adequate lubricant film, reducing wear and providing continuous protection for critical wind turbine components.

The Solution

Following an assessment of the application requirements, GB Lubricants recommended GB Unigrease® LXEP1 and GB Unigrease® 1749, two extreme pressure greases formulated specifically for demanding industrial environments, including wind turbine applications.

GB Unigrease® LXEP1 utilises a lithium complex thickener combined with extreme pressure additives, allowing it to perform effectively under high loads and shock-loaded operating conditions. This formulation helps protect critical components from premature wear and damage. [

GB Unigrease® 1749 incorporates a multi-complex soap system designed to improve performance in saturated environments and across varying temperatures, ensuring consistent protection in challenging operating conditions.

Both products are designed for the lubrication of heavy-duty anti-friction bearings and precision components, helping to extend equipment life in dry, wet and shock-loaded environments.

The Outcome

Routine inspections of blade routes and alternator couplings showed reduced levels of pitting after the introduction of GB Lubricants’ products. The customer also reported improved performance under heavy loads when compared with previously used competitor products.

The results demonstrated the high level of extreme pressure performance provided by GB Unigrease® LXEP1 and 1749, delivering enhanced protection for critical wind turbine components operating in arduous conditions.

Reduced wear levels enabled the customer to move towards longer service intervals, helping to optimise maintenance planning and improve operational efficiency across the turbine fleet.

The Value

By switching to GB Unigrease® LXEP1 and 1749, the customer achieved:

• Reduced levels of component wear and pitting
• Improved protection against corrosion and premature component failure
• Longer maintenance intervals
• Reduced maintenance downtime
• Lower lubricant consumption through high shear stability
• Improved performance under heavy and shock-loaded conditions
• Greater protection of expensive wind turbine components
• Significant savings on lubricant and maintenance costs

The combination of excellent extreme pressure performance, high shear stability and reliable protection across varying environmental conditions has helped the customer achieve longer periods of continuous wind turbine operation while reducing overall operating costs.