LUBRICATION GUIDE
NLGI Grease Grades Chart and EP 2 Grease Uses
By the PCG Technical Desk · Updated 27 September 2026
Quick answer: The NLGI grade describes grease consistency (hardness), measured as worked cone penetration at 25 °C. NLGI 2 (penetration 265–295) is the most common bearing grease. EP 2 means an NLGI 2 grease with extreme-pressure additives, for shock-loaded bearings.
NLGI consistency grades
| NLGI grade | Worked penetration (0.1 mm) | Consistency |
|---|---|---|
| 000 | 445 – 475 | Fluid |
| 00 | 400 – 430 | Semi-fluid |
| 0 | 355 – 385 | Very soft |
| 1 | 310 – 340 | Soft |
| 2 | 265 – 295 | Normal (most bearings) |
| 3 | 220 – 250 | Firm |
| 4 | 175 – 205 | Very firm |
| 5 | 130 – 160 | Hard |
| 6 | 85 – 115 | Very hard |
EP 2 grease uses
EP 2 greases are used in plain and anti-friction bearings under shock load: earth-movers, crushers, conveyors, gear couplings and vehicle chassis. IOCL's Servogem EP 2 has a worked penetration of 265–295 and is listed for automotive, earth-moving, coupling, motor, mining and general machinery bearings.
Choosing a grade
- Softer grades (00–1) for centralised systems and gear housings.
- NLGI 2 for most rolling bearings.
- NLGI 3 for vertical shafts and high-speed bearings where the OEM specifies it.
Consistency is only one part of the choice. Thickener type and base-oil viscosity matter too (see SERVO greases).
Outside Karnataka? The technical information on this page applies anywhere in India. PCG Business Solutions supplies SERVO in seven Karnataka districts. If you are in another state, send us your requirement and we will point you to IndianOil's authorised channel for your area, or answer any technical question about the grade.
