| Property | Value | Implication | |----------|-------|--------------| | Thickener | Lithium complex | Excellent mechanical stability, high dropping point. | | NLGI Grade | 2 | Standard consistency; suitable for most centralized systems and bearings. | | Dropping Point | >260°C (500°F) | High temperature capability before liquefying. | | Operating Temperature | -20°C to 150°C (-4°F to 302°F) | Broad range; intermittent use up to 150°C. | | Base Oil Viscosity (40°C) | ~150 cSt | Medium-viscosity oil – good film strength for normal to slightly heavy loads. | | Base Oil Type | Highly refined mineral oil | Good oxidation resistance, but not synthetic. | | 4-Ball Weld Load (ASTM D2596) | ~260-280 kg | Moderate extreme pressure (EP) performance. | | Water Washout (79°C) | <5% loss | Excellent resistance to water washout. | | SKF EMCOR (Rust) | 0-0 (pass) | Excellent corrosion protection in fresh/salt water. |
The four-ball weld load >300 kg confirms that the EP (extreme pressure) additives provide a safety margin against boundary lubrication events. While not a heavy-duty EP grease (like a lithium complex), it is more than adequate for standard ball and roller bearings.
The "G" in the name stands for "General purpose." Alvania G3 is engineered to provide long bearing life under normal to heavy loads, moderate speeds, and environments prone to moisture ingress.
Passing the SKF EMCOR test with a 0,0 rating (no rust) means it protects static and dynamic surfaces even in salt spray or condensation environments.
Looking at the specifications section of the sheet, you will see a few standout numbers:
Cons:
Recommendations:
If you want, I can:
The Shell Alvania G3 (often referred to as Shell Alvania R3 or RL3) is a high-performance, lithium-based multipurpose grease. While the "Alvania" brand name is now largely obsolete, its legacy continues under the Shell Gadus S2 V100 3 designation. Technical Data and Specifications Shell Alvania G3
/Gadus S2 V100 3 is a medium-to-hard consistency grease designed for industrial applications that require reliable protection under varying temperatures. Specification NLGI Consistency Soap Type Lithium Hydroxystearate Base Oil Type Kinematic Viscosity @ 40°C Kinematic Viscosity @ 100°C 11 cSt (approx. 8–11) Operating Temp Range -20°C to +130°C Dropping Point 180°C – 190°C (min) Color Light Yellow to Brown Key Performance Benefits
Oxidation and Mechanical Stability: It resists the formation of deposits often caused by high-temperature oxidation, ensuring longer bearing life. shell alvania g3 data sheet
Vibration Resistance: The formula is extremely stable under vibrations, preventing leakage even in bearings subjected to repeated shock loads.
Corrosion Protection: It provides effective protection against rust and corrosion in hostile environments.
Extended Storage: The grease does not significantly change in consistency during prolonged storage periods. Common Applications
The NLGI 3 consistency makes this grease "harder" than standard grade 2 greases, making it ideal for vertical or high-speed applications where grease retention is critical.
Electric Motor Bearings: Specifically recommended for high-performance industrial motors. The four-ball weld load >300 kg confirms that
Water Pump Bearings: Its resistance to water washout and heat makes it a standard choice for pump maintenance.
Sealed-for-Life Bearings: Often used in components designed to operate without re-greasing for their entire service life.
Heavy Industrial Machinery: Used in rolling element and plain grease-lubricated bearings across various sectors. Availability and Replacements Shell Gadus S2 V100 3
| Property | Method | Value |
|----------|--------|-------|
| NLGI Grade | ASTM D217 | 2 |
| Thickener Type | – | Lithium hydroxystearate |
| Base Oil Viscosity @ 40°C | ASTM D445 | ~150–220 cSt |
| Dropping Point | IP 132 | >180°C (356°F) |
| Operating Temperature Range | – | -20°C to +120°C (-4°F to +248°F)
(short peaks up to 130°C / 266°F) |
| Water Washout @ 79°C | ASTM D1264 | < 5% weight loss |
| Copper Corrosion (24h/100°C) | ASTM D4048 | 1b (pass) |
| 4-Ball Weld Load (ASTM D2596) | – | > 250 kg |
| Rust Protection (SKF EMCOR) | IP 220 | 0-0 (pass) |
Important limitation from the data sheet: Do not use in central lubrication systems with very long (>50m) or small-diameter (<6mm) lines because NLGI 3 may cause pressure spikes. Also avoid high-speed spindle bearings (>10,000 RPM). Passing the SKF EMCOR test with a 0,0