Does Ceramic Bearing Need Lubricant

The rolling resistance of a ceramic bearing compared to an abec 3 5 or 7 steel ball bearing is offset by the resistance of the grease he says.

Does ceramic bearing need lubricant. Do i have a carbon fiber bike. All bearings whether steel or ceramic require lubrication. Does this mean i should run my ceramic ball bearings dry or with light oil. The grease in a bearing will help capture dirt and particulates and keep them away from rolling elements of the bearing.

As my understanding ceramic bearing can work without grease but they should work better with appropriate lubrication. For minimum rolling resistance lighter weight greases are better. In order for a ceramic ball bearing to out perform a steel ball bearing grease is not an option. Any grease will work just fine.

Petroleum or ptfe teflon based bicycle greases can cause damage to carbon fiber bicycles so make sure you have a carbon safe grease on hand. Bicycles that have ceramic bearings need ceramic grease or ceramic safe grease to maximize performance as well as protect the bearings from unnecessary wear. For example compared to steel bearings ceramic balls can operate under the same lubrication conditions at speeds up to 20 higher. None of these may apply to ceramic bearings.

Ceramics have lower density thermal expansion and friction than. There is absolutely nothing magic about ceramic bearings including what lube you choose to use. Mineral or synthetic based lubricants are the most commonly used and are designed for general and high speed use. Grease and oil are common lubricants for hybrid bearings but ceramic bearings are less sensitive to fluctuations in lubrication conditions.

Normally from the experience dealing with inter metal friction the light oil may not stay between two metal surface under a high load to decrease the friction. We are so accustomed to lubing things lubrication everything we do we lube. For riding in the rain fully waterproof greases are better stay away from lithium grease. The lubricant will affect maximum running speed and temperature torque level noise level and ultimately bearing life.

There are a range of options depending on the application. Lube helps prevent rust roll easier dissipate heat and makes steel bearings last longer. Ceramic bearings do not undergo cold welding or corrode so they don t need oil or grease to extend operating life.