This information sheet provides fundamental, generalized lubrication information. It is intended as a reference source, in conjunction with AGMA 9005, in AGMA application specific standards. This information sheet is prepared as a guide for gear designers and manufacturers in the selection of suitable commercially available liquid lubricants for open and enclosed gear drives. These recommendations may be of assistance to users in the selection of an acceptable lubricant and lubrication system in the absence of specific manufacturers’ recommendations.

This information sheet applies to both open and enclosed metallic gearing that has been designed and rated in accordance with applicable AGMA Standards. The applicable gear types include involute profiles of spur, helical including double helical and herringbone, worm, non-offset bevel, and face gears. The guidelines apply to both open gearing, where bearings are lubricated separately, and enclosed gearing, where bearings and gears share a common lubrication system. The special regulatory requirements associated with food or drug handling applications are not addressed in this information sheet. Hypoid gears are not covered by this document. See AGMA ISO 22849 [1]. Greases and solid lubricants are not discussed in detail in this document.

This information sheet is not intended to replace any existing application standards such as aerospace, automotive, marine, industrial enclosed drives, high speed applications, mill, kiln, wind turbines, flexible couplings, or splines. See applicable AGMA application standards for lubrication specific guidelines.

This information sheet is intended for use by the experienced gear designer with an understanding of the lubricant and lubrication needs of the application being reviewed.