EP3820978B1 - Environmentally friendly lubricating grease for steel ropes - Google Patents

Description

The invention relates to an environmentally friendly lubricating grease for steel cables, in particular galvanized steel cables, and its use.

Lubricants for steel ropes are used to separate the individual rope strands from one another with a lubricating film, i. H. to lubricate and thereby reduce wear, as well as to protect the steel cable as a whole against corrosion. Depending on their area of application, the lubricants have to fulfill various additional tasks. For example, in the marine industry and in the oil and gas industry, it is necessary for the lubricants to have a good lubricating effect and to be usable over a wide temperature range and also in the presence of water. If galvanized steel cables are used, the lubricants must not have any negative impact on the zinc layer of the steel cable.

In addition, there is in principle an increasing demand for environmentally compatible lubricants, in particular lubricants that meet the requirements for environmentally compatible lubricants (EAL = Environmentally Acceptable Lubricants) according to Appendix A of the 2013 Vessel General Permit and can therefore also be used for components that may come into contact with seawater. Environmentally acceptable lubricants must be biodegradable and have minimal toxicity and no bioaccumulation.

A wide variety of lubricants for steel cables are described in the literature.

the CH 540331A describes a lubricant for steel cords which contains as the main component a saturated or unsaturated fatty acid with 5-30 carbon atoms or an ester of such an acid or a mixture thereof.

the EP 0108536 A1 describes an anti-corrosion composition comprising a corrosion inhibitor, a thickener and a thixotropic gel. The anti-corrosion composition can be used to treat multi-wire electrical conductors, wire ropes or cables.

US4589990A describes a lubricant composition containing specific synthetic esters, namely polyol esters, trimellitate esters and polymeric fatty acid esters, and a blend of polyisobutylene polymers of different molecular weights. The lubricant composition can also be used, inter alia, for the treatment of wire ropes.

US4486319A describes a microporous lubricating composition containing an ionomer polymer and a liquid lubricant. The ionomer polymer can be combined with other polymers and the composition may contain various additives to modify the performance and properties of the formed composition. The shaped composition can be used to lubricate mechanical components including wire ropes and bearings such as B. plain bearings can be used.

CA2364200 describes a lubricating composition for lubricating wire ropes comprising: (a) between 50 and 95 percent by volume of a base fluid; (b) between 1 and 8 percent by volume of a low acid lubricant; (c) between 0.2 and 5.0 volume percent of a low acidity corrosion inhibitor; (d) between 0.1 and 10% by volume of an extreme pressure agent; and (e) between 0.1 and 10% by volume of an antiwear agent.

US6329073 B1 describes a steel article treated with a corrosion inhibiting and adhesion resistant composition, the composition comprising: A) an oily or waxy carrier as a carrier of active components, and B) active components comprising: B1) a Group IIA sulfonate corrosion inhibitor; B2) a co-corrosion inhibitor selected from the group consisting of: (a) one or more fatty acids having from 6 to 24 carbon atoms, aromatic acids and naphthenic acids, which acids are in the free acid form or the salt form (b) one or more imidazoline derivatives with a C6-24 alkyl moiety; and (c) one or more of C6-24 alkyl succinic anhydride compounds; and (d) mixtures of one or more of the compounds defined under (a), (b) and (c), or mixtures of multiple forms of the compounds defined under (a), (b) and (c); and C) optionally a compound selected from the group consisting of: C1) a water repellent; C2) a synthetic ester derived from a C1-10 alcohol having 1-12 hydroxyl groups and C6-24 fatty acids; and C3) a C6-18 alcohol; and C4) a mixture of one or more the compounds defined under C1), C2) and C3) or mixtures of several forms of the compounds defined under C1), C2) and C3); wherein the elongate steel object is a hard drawn steel wire.

US6010985A describes a non-toxic lubricant, grease or gel composition comprising a combination of: at least one base oil from about 45% to about 90% by weight; from about 10% to about 20% by weight of at least one polymer that is at least partially miscible with the at least one base oil; and from about 1% to about 50% by weight of at least one siliceous thickener comprising at least one compound selected from the group consisting of aluminum silicate, magnesium silicate, sodium silicate, calcium silicate, potassium silicate, lithium silicate, and ammonium silicate.

CN 102102047A describes a protective grease composition for a high-temperature-resistant steel wire rope and a manufacturing method therefor. The grease composition is made from base oil (high viscosity mineral oil or synthetic oil), a thickener, an additive and a covering agent. Steel Wire Rope Grease is made by thickening the base oil with a solid hydrocarbon thickener. The thickening agent is bentonite. A high molecular weight tackifier and a solid filler grease are used to improve the performance, high temperature resistance and adhesive strength of bentonite grease. Steel wire rope protective grease is specially used to protect steel wire rope in extreme high temperature environment.

CN 102618371A describes steel cable grease with a high dropping point and a preparation method for steel cable grease. The steel cable grease consists of the following components (in percentages by weight): 65%-85% base oil, 5%-20% Thickener, 2%-15% tackifier, 1%-6% rust inhibitor, 0-5% antioxidant, 0-5% polar additive and 0.5%-6% solid lubricant.

CN 102827678A describes a wire rope lubricating grease composition that provides corrosion protection in addition to lubrication. The composition consists of the following components: 51.0% to 72.5% Calcium Sulfonate Compound Grease #2, 25.0 to 38.0% Base Oil, 0.2 to 1.0% Diphenylamine, 1.3 to 5, 5% colloidal graphite and 1.0 to 4.5% ozocerite. The product is suitable for lubricating and protecting various wire ropes in oceanic climate conditions such as sea port, sea ship, offshore drilling platforms, etc. GB 2 553 340A discloses an offshore rope lubricant that meets the requirements for Environmentally Acceptable Lubricants under Appendix A of the 2013 Vessel General Permit.

However, the aforementioned lubricants do not meet all of the above requirements, namely, in addition to a good lubricating effect in a wide temperature range and also in the presence of water, and also the requirements for environmentally friendly lubricants (EAL = Environmentally Acceptable Lubricants) according to Appendix A of 2013 to meet Vessel General Permit. The invention is therefore based on the object of providing a lubricant that meets the aforementioned requirements.

This problem is solved by an environmentally compatible lubricating grease according to claim 1.

In extensive tests, the applicant found that it is possible with a lubricating grease of the aforementioned composition to provide an environmentally friendly lubricant that has outstanding lubricating properties when used on steel cables, in particular galvanized steel cables, with usability even in the presence of water and in a wide range Combined temperature range.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the lubricating grease has a drop point according to the DIN ISO 2176 standard of more than 150°C, for example from 150°C to 300°C and/or from 170°C to 300°C and/or from 200°C up to 290°C. In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the lubricating grease has an upper service temperature (OGT) in accordance with the DIN standard 58397 Part 1 of at least 150°C, for example from 150°C to 200°C and/or from 150°C.

According to the invention, there are preferably at least 75% by weight, for example from 75% by weight to 100% by weight, more preferably at least 80% by weight, for example from 80% by weight to 100% by weight and/or from 85% by weight to 100 % by weight and/or from 75% to 90% by weight of the grease of biodegradable and non-toxic ingredients. The grease may also contain up to 25% by weight of non-biodegradable components provided they are non-bioaccumulating and/or minimally toxic. The lubricating grease according to the invention meets the criteria for environmentally compatible

Lubricants (EAL = Environmentally Acceptable Lubricants) according to Appendix A of the 2013 Vessel General Permit. Thus, the lubricating grease can also be used for applications that may come into contact with seawater.

In addition, it was found that components a) to c) have no negative effect on the zinc layer of galvanized steel cables and, in particular, do not react with the zinc layer.

As component a), the lubricating grease contains from 50% by weight to 90% by weight, more preferably at least 60% by weight, for example from 60% by weight to 80% by weight, and in particular from 65% by weight to 75% by weight. a biodegradable base oil, in particular a biodegradable ester base oil. The proportion of component a) is based on the total amount of the lubricating grease. According to the invention, a biodegradable base oil or a biodegradable ester is to be understood as meaning a base oil and/or an ester which is biodegradable according to the OECD 301 AF or OECD 306 standard.

According to the invention, mixtures of different base oils and/or different esters can also be used. In order for the lubricant to meet the requirements for EAL, the base oil or the ester must also have no toxicity.

According to the invention, a large number of biodegradable base oils and in particular biodegradable esters can be used as component a), provided they have sufficient thermal stability. Preferred biodegradable base oils are base oils and in particular esters which have a thermal stability, determinable via TGA (DIN 51006; evaporation loss greater than 1% by weight means thermally unstable) of over 150°C, for example in the range from 150°C to 200°C.

Preferably, the base oil and especially the ester also has a rather low volatility. Consequently, preferred biodegradable base oils are base oils and in particular esters which have a volatility, measured according to DIN 58397 according to 7d, 150° C., of <10% by weight, preferably <5% by weight.

Preferably, the lubricating grease also has a rather low volatility. Consequently, preferred lubricating greases are lubricating greases which have a volatility, measured according to DIN 58397 after 7d, 150° C., of <10% by weight, preferably <5% by weight.

In addition, the base oil and in particular the ester preferably exhibits high hydrolytic stability. For this reason, preferred biodegradable base oils are base oils and/or esters which, measured according to DIN ASTM D-2619 (with an extended service life of 400 h, 93° C.), have a TAN delta (change in acid content) of 0.0 mg KOH/g to 20, more preferably from 0.0 to 15 mg KOH/g.

Finally, the base oils and in particular the esters preferably have a low acid content (TAN) according to DIN EN 12634, with preferred biodegradable base oils and in particular esters having an acid content (TAN) of less than 5 mg KOH/g, for example from 0.01 mg to 5 mg KOH/g, more preferably less than 1 mg KOH/g, for example from 0.01 mg KOH/g to 1 mg KOH/g.

The viscosity of the biodegradable base oil is preferably at least 18 mm ² /s, for example from 18 mm ² /s to 1200 mm ² /s and/or at least 100 mm ² /sec, for example from 100 mm ² /sec to 1200 mm ² / s and/or from 120 to 500 mm ² /sec and/or from 120 to 300 mm ² /sec, each measured according to DIN EN ISO 3104 at 40°C.

The viscosity of preferred mixtures of base oils measured according to DIN 51562 Part 1 at 40°C is at least 18 mm ² /s, for example from 18 mm ² /s to 1200 mm ² /s and/or 18 mm ² /s to 500 mm ² / s and/or 18 to 200 mm ² /s.

The viscosity of preferred biodegradable esters is from 50 mm ² /sec to 1200 mm ² /s, more preferably at least 100 mm ² /sec, for example from 100 mm ² /sec to 1000 mm ² /s and/or from 100 mm ² /s sec to 1200 mm ² /s and in particular from 130 to 1000 mm ² /sec and/or from 130 mm ² /sec to 1200 mm ² /s, each measured according to DIN EN ISO 3104 at 40°C.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the biodegradable ester is a synthetic ester. Furthermore, the ester is particularly preferably a renewable-based ester. A particularly preferred ester according to the invention is a polyol ester, in particular

(Trimethylolpropane) esters, pentaerythritol esters, mixtures and/or complex esters thereof. Particularly preferred (trimethylolpropane) esters are esters of trimethylolpropane and branched or unbranched and saturated or unsaturated C ₁₀ -C ₂₂ carboxylic acids. The acids can be mono and/or dicarboxylic acids. If dicarboxylic acids are used, complex esters can be obtained. Particularly preferred pentaerythritol esters are esters of pentaerythritol and branched or unbranched and saturated or unsaturated C ₁₀ -C ₂₂ carboxylic acids. Very particularly preferred esters are esters of trimethylolpropane or pentaerythritol with saturated or unsaturated branched C ₁₈ -carboxylic acids, in particular with oleic acid, isostearic acid mixtures and/or complex esters thereof. Also particularly preferred esters are esters of trimethylolpropane with saturated or unsaturated, branched or unbranched, C ₈ -C ₂₀ carboxylic acids and/or C ₁₀ -C ₂₂ carboxylic acids, in particular with sebacic acid, stearic acid and isostearic acid, mixtures and/or complex esters thereof .

Also particularly preferred esters are complex esters of trimethylolpropane with saturated, branched or unbranched C ₈ -C ₂₀ carboxylic acids and/or C ₁₀ -C ₂₂ carboxylic acids, in particular with sebacic acid, stearic acid and isostearic acid, and/or mixtures thereof. Also particularly preferred esters are complex esters of trimethylolpropane with a mixture of at least two saturated or unsaturated, branched or unbranched, C ₈ -C ₂₀ carboxylic acids and/or C ₁₀ -C ₂₂ carboxylic acids, where at least one first carboxylic acid is a saturated or unsaturated, branched or unbranched C ₈ -C ₂₀ dicarboxylic acid and/or C ₁₀ -C ₂₂ dicarboxylic acid and at least one second acid is a saturated or unsaturated, branched or unbranched C ₈ -C ₂₀ carboxylic acid and/or C ₁₀ -C ₂₂ carboxylic acid is. Also particularly preferred esters are complex esters of trimethylolpropane with a mixture of at least two saturated, branched or unbranched, C ₈ -C ₂₀ carboxylic acids and/or C ₁₀ -C ₂₂ carboxylic acids, where at least one first carboxylic acid is a saturated, unbranched C ₈ -C ₁₂ dicarboxylic acid, in particular sebacic acid, and at least one second acid is a saturated, branched or unbranched C ₁₅ -C ₂₀ carboxylic acid, in particular stearic acid, isostearic acid or a mixture thereof.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, component a) is not a triglyceride, since triglycerides have an unsatisfactory hydrolytic and oxidative or chemical stability, at least for some applications.

Also suitable biodegradable base oils are polyalphaolefins and/or polyglycols.

Particularly preferred biodegradable polyalphaolefins have a viscosity measured according to DIN 51562 Part 1 at 100° C. of at most 6 mm ² /s, for example from 2 mm ² /s to 6 mm ² /s and/or 2 mm ² /s to 5 mm ² /s and/or 2 to 4 mm ² /s.

Particularly preferred biodegradable polyglycols are oil-soluble polyglycols. These preferably have a viscosity measured according to DIN 51562 Part 1 at 40° C. of at most 150 mm ² /s, for example from 18 mm ² /s to 150 mm ² /s and/or 18 mm ² /s to 68 mm ² /s and/or 18 to 46 mm ² /s.

As component b), the lubricating grease contains a thickener selected from biodegradable calcium soaps (b1)) in an amount of 3 to 12% by weight, more preferably 4% to 10% by weight, in particular 4% to 7% by weight % by weight, bentonites (b2)) in an amount of 3% by weight to 25% by weight and/or 3.5% by weight to 20% by weight and/or 4 to 12% by weight, more preferably 4 wt% to 10 wt% and mixtures thereof. The amount of the thickener is, according to the invention, 3% by weight to 25% by weight and/or 7% by weight to 20% by weight. The proportion of component b) is based on the total amount of the lubricating grease.

The advantage of using calcium soap as a thickening agent is that it increases the resistance to water, particularly in combination with component c2).

According to the invention, a biodegradable calcium soap is a calcium soap which is biodegradable according to the OECD 301 A-F and/or OECD 306 standard. In addition, for the lubricant to meet the requirements for EAL, the calcium soap must have no or minimal toxicity. Preferred calcium soaps are water-resistant; in particular, they have static water resistance in accordance with DIN 51807 T1. According to the invention, calcium soaps are preferred to bentonites because they have a higher thickening effect and better biodegradability. Mixtures of different calcium soaps or bentonites can also be used.

Calcium soaps of fatty acids, in particular C8-C26 fatty acids, in particular calcium 12-hydroxystearate, are particularly preferred.

In principle, mixtures of calcium soaps and bentonites can also be used. However, this embodiment is less preferred, at least when using galvanized steel cables, since zinc corrosion is worsened compared to the isolated use of calcium soaps or bentonites.

It is conceivable that the base oil as component c) contains from 1% by weight to 40% by weight of additives. According to the invention, the base oil contains 4% to 40% by weight % by weight, more preferably from 5% by weight to 40% by weight, more preferably from 7% by weight to 40% by weight and in particular from 10% by weight to 35% by weight of additives. The proportion of component c) is based on the total amount of the lubricating grease.

According to the invention, the additives of component c) comprise from 1 to 12% by weight and/or 4 to 12% by weight, preferably from 4% by weight to 10% by weight, of pyrogenic silicon dioxide and/or polytetrafluoroethylene as component c1). The proportion of component c1) is based on the total amount of the lubricating grease.

In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the fumed silicon dioxide is selected from silicic acid with a specific surface area of 90 to 130 m ² /g. Preference is also given to hydrophobic pyrogenic silica, in particular a silica hydrophobicized by means of dichlorodimethylsilane.

Component c1) contributes to improving the dropping point of the lubricating grease and thereby to its temperature resistance in the sense of an increase in the upper service temperature (UTT). In addition, component c1) has the advantage that it acts as a co-thickener and can thereby contribute to stabilization of the thickener system.

According to the invention, the additives of component c) comprise as component c2) a polymer selected from polyisobutylene, polyisobutylene/butene copolymer, polymethacrylates, polyesters, preferably complex esters, in particular complex esters of neopentyl glycol/dimer acid/2-ethylhexanol and mixtures thereof. According to the invention, a complex ester is understood as meaning a polyester which is formed by reaction of polyols with dicarboxylic acids, and optionally Monocarboxylic acids is produced. The proportion of component c2) is from 2% by weight to 25% by weight, more preferably from 5% by weight to 20% by weight and in particular from 7% by weight to 17% by weight, based in each case on the total amount of the lubricating grease .

The polymers of component c2) have a viscosity, measured according to DIN 51562 Part 1 at 100° C., of at least 600 mm ² /s, more preferably at least 800 mm ² /s and/or at least 1000 mm ² /s and/or at least 1500 mm ² /s and/or at least 4000 mm ² /s, for example from 4000 mm ² /s to 10000 mm ² /s and/or from 4000 mm ² /s to 6000 mm ² /s, in particular from 4000 to 4700 mm ² /s up. A high viscosity is advantageous because the amount used can be kept low as a result. Polyisobutylene and/or polyisobutylene/butene copolymers are particularly preferred according to the invention, since these are inexpensive raw materials and do not have any hydrolyzable groups, such as ester groups, for example. Also preferred are polymers that are biodegradable.

The use of component c2) is advantageous because, as a toxicologically harmless adhesion promoter, it improves the adhesion, measured according to ASTM D 4049, of <50% by weight loss, for example <30% by weight loss, more preferably <25% by weight loss, between lubricating grease and steel cable , can improve.

According to the invention, therefore, the lubricating grease preferably has a weight loss in a water spray-off test according to ASTM D 4049 of <50% by weight, for example <30% by weight, more preferably <25% by weight. As component c3), the additives of component c) according to the invention comprise from 0.5% by weight to 20% by weight and/or 1% by weight to 10% by weight, more preferably from 1% by weight to 9% by weight and especially from 1.5% by weight to 8% by weight of a solid lubricant, preferably selected from alkaline earth metal salts, in particular calcium carbonate, calcium stearate, graphite, melamine cyanurate, zinc sulfide (ZnS), molybdenum sulfide (MoS2) and mixtures thereof. The proportion of component c3) is based on the total amount of the lubricating grease.

The use of the aforementioned solid lubricants, in particular calcium carbonate, graphite, melamine cyanurate and calcium stearate as component c3), is particularly advantageous since these compounds are toxicologically harmless and can significantly improve the friction properties of the steel cable.

Solid lubricants which are less preferred according to the invention are dithiocarbamates, in particular ashless dithiocarbamates, bis-stearoyl-ethylenediamine and mixtures thereof. In practical tests it was found that the use of these compounds has a negative effect on the corrosion of the zinc layer. This is also disadvantageous from an environmental point of view, since zinc oxide, which is produced when zinc corrodes, is toxic to aquatic organisms.

It is also conceivable that the lubricating grease contains from 0.5% by weight and in particular from 0.5 to 2.8% by weight of succinic acid derivatives as the first corrosion protection agent, in particular amidized succinic acid monoesters as component c4). The proportion of component c4) is based on the total amount of the lubricating grease. Component c4) preferably has a neutralization number (NZ) (DIN 53402) of from 70 to 100 mg KOH/g.

The use of the succinic acid derivatives is advantageous because they are biodegradable and have a high anti-corrosion effect.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the lubricating grease contains a second anti-corrosion agent as component c5), preferably selected from alkaline earth oxides, in particular calcium oxide and/or magnesium oxide, and calcium, magnesium and/or sodium sulfonates or salts of C ₈ -C ₂₀ Dicarboxylic acids, especially disodium sebacate. The advantage of the aforementioned components is that they offer good protection against corrosion and are non-toxic. Magnesium oxide, disodium sebaccate and/or mixtures thereof are particularly preferred. In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, component c5) has a particle size distribution d10 from 1 to 10 μm, more preferably from 3 to 8 μm, more preferably from 4 to 6 μm and in particular from 5 μm and/or a particle size distribution d50 from 10 to 30 μm, more preferably from 13 to 22 μm, more preferably from 15 to 20 μm and in particular from 17 μm and/or a particle size distribution d90 from 30 to 50 μm, more preferably from 35 to 45 μm and in particular from 40 μm. In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, component c5) has a particle size distribution d50 of less than 25 μm, for example from 5 μm to 25 μm and/or from 5 μm to 20 μm.

The advantage of using component c5) is that it can act as a basic reserve in addition to increasing the corrosion protection of the lubricating grease. In addition, it was found in practical tests that magnesium oxide acts synergistically as component c5) in combination with c4).

The proportion of component c5) is preferably in the range from 0.3 to 5% by weight, more preferably from 0.5 to 2.5% by weight and in particular from 1% by weight to 2.3% by weight. The proportion of component c5) is based on the total amount of the lubricating grease.

The lubricating grease can also contain other customary additives, for example antioxidants, provided these do not have a negative effect on the environmental compatibility of the lubricating grease. Thus, in a preferred embodiment of the invention, the lubricating grease contains an antioxidant as component c6). This is preferably selected from non-toxic or only minimally toxic antioxidants. Preferably the level of antioxidant is in the range from 0.3 to 3% by weight, more preferably from 0.5 to 2% by weight and especially from 0.8% to 1.5% by weight. The proportion of component c6) is based on the total amount of the lubricating grease.

Antioxidants which are particularly preferred according to the invention are phenolic and/or aminic antioxidants.

1. a) von 50 Gew.% bis 90 Gew.% eines biologisch abbaubaren Esters als Grundöl, wobei die Viskosität des biologisch abbaubaren Esters bei 40°C von 50 mm²/s bis 1200 mm²/s beträgt,
2. b) von 7 Gew.% bis 20 Gew.% eines Verdickungsmittels ausgewählt aus
   • b1) von 3 Gew.% bis 12 Gew.% biologisch abbaubarer Calciumseife,
   • b2) von 4 Gew.% bis 12 Gew.% Bentonite,
3. c) von 4 Gew.% bis 40 Gew.% Additive, umfassend
   • c1) von 4 Gew.% bis 12 Gew.% pyrogenes Siliciumdioxid und/oder Polytetrafluorethylen und Gemische hiervon,
   • c2) von 2 Gew.% bis 25 Gew.% eines Polymers ausgewählt aus Polyisobutylen, Polyisobutylen-/ Buten-Copolymer, Polymethacrylaten, Komplexestern aus Neopentylglykol/Dimersäure/2-Ethylhexanol und Gemischen hiervon, wobei der Polyester c2) eine Viskosität, bei 100 °C von mindestens 600 mm²/s aufweist,
   • c3) von 1 Gew.% bis 10 Gew.% eines Festschmierstoffs, wobei das Schmierfett die Voraussetzungen für umweltverträgliche Schmiermittel (EAL = Environmentally Acceptable Lubricants) gemäß Appendix A des 2013 Vessel General Permit erfüllt und daher auch für Komponenten verwendbar ist, die in Kontakt mit Seewasser kommen können.

In one embodiment of the invention, the grease comprises:

1. a) from 50% by weight to 90% by weight of a biodegradable ester as base oil, the viscosity of the biodegradable ester at 40°C being from 50 mm ² /s to 1200 mm ² /s,
2. b) from 7% to 20% by weight of a thickener selected from
   • b1) from 3% by weight to 12% by weight of biodegradable calcium soap,
   • b2) from 4% to 12% by weight of bentonites,
3. c) from 4% to 40% by weight of additives comprising
   • c1) from 4% by weight to 12% by weight pyrogenic silicon dioxide and/or polytetrafluoroethylene and mixtures thereof,
   • c2) from 2% to 25% by weight of a polymer selected from polyisobutylene, polyisobutylene/butene copolymer, polymethacrylates, complex esters of neopentyl glycol/dimer acid/2-ethylhexanol and Mixtures thereof, where the polyester c2) has a viscosity at 100 °C of at least 600 mm ² /s,
   • c3) from 1% by weight to 10% by weight of a solid lubricant, the grease meeting the requirements for environmentally acceptable lubricants (EAL = Environmentally Acceptable Lubricants) in accordance with Appendix A of the 2013 Vessel General Permit and can therefore also be used for components that are in contact can come with sea water.

1. a) von 50 Gew.% bis 90 Gew.%, noch bevorzugter von 60 Gew.% bis 80 Gew.%, noch bevorzugter von 65 Gew.% bis 75 Gew.% Pentaerytritester, insbesondere Pentaerythritester aus Pentaerythrit und Isostearinsäure, als Grundöl,
2. b) von 3 Gew.% bis 25 Gew.% eines Verdickungsmittels ausgewählt aus
   b1) von 3 Gew.% bis 12 Gew.%, noch bevorzugter von 4 Gew.% bis 10 Gew.%, noch bevorzugter von 4 Gew.% bis 7 Gew.%, Ca-12-Hydroxystearat,
3. c) von 4 Gew.% bis 40 Gew.%, noch bevorzugter von 5 Gew.% bis 40 Gew.%, noch bevorzugter von 7 Gew.% bis 40 Gew.%, noch bevorzugter von 10 Gew.% bis 35 Gew.% Additive, umfassend
   • c1) von 1 Gew.% bis 12 Gew.% und/oder von 4 Gew.% bis 12 Gew.%, bevorzugt von 4 Gew.% bis 10 Gew.% pyrogenes Siliciumdioxid,
   • c2) von 2 Gew.% bis 45 Gew.% und/oder von 2 Gew.% bis 25 Gew.%, noch bevorzugter von 5 Gew.% bis 20 Gew.% und insbesondere von 7 Gew.% bis 17 Gew.%, Polyisobutylen,
   • c3) von 0,5 Gew.% bis 20 Gew.% und/oder von 1 Gew.% bis 10 Gew.%, noch bevorzugter von 1 Gew.% bis 9 Gew.% und insbesondere von 1,5 Gew.% bis 8 Gew.% Calciumcarbonat als Festschmierstoff.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the lubricating grease comprises:

1. a) from 50% by weight to 90% by weight, more preferably from 60% by weight to 80% by weight, more preferably from 65% by weight to 75% by weight, of pentaerythritol ester, in particular pentaerythritol ester of pentaerythritol and isostearic acid, as base oil,
2. b) from 3% to 25% by weight of a thickener selected from
   b1) from 3% to 12% by weight, more preferably from 4% to 10% by weight, more preferably from 4% to 7% by weight, of Ca-12-hydroxystearate,
3. c) from 4% to 40% by weight, more preferably from 5% to 40% by weight, even more preferably from 7% to 40% by weight, even more preferably from 10% to 35% by weight % Additives, comprising
   • c1) from 1% to 12% by weight and/or from 4% to 12% by weight, preferably from 4% to 10% by weight, of pyrogenic silicon dioxide,
   • c2) from 2% to 45% by weight and/or from 2% to 25% by weight, more preferably from 5% to 20% by weight and in particular from 7% to 17% by weight , polyisobutylene,
   • c3) from 0.5% to 20% by weight and/or from 1% to 10% by weight, more preferably from 1% to 9% by weight and in particular from 1.5% to 8% by weight calcium carbonate as a solid lubricant.

1. a) von 50 Gew.% bis 90 Gew.%, noch bevorzugter von 60 Gew.% bis 80 Gew.%, noch bevorzugter von 65 Gew.% bis 75 Gew.% Pentaerytritester, insbesondere Pentaerythritester aus Pentaerythrit und Isostearinsäure, als Grundöl,
2. b) von 3 Gew.% bis 25 Gew.% eines Verdickungsmittels ausgewählt aus
   b1) von 3 Gew.% bis 12 Gew.%, noch bevorzugter von 4 Gew.% bis 10 Gew.%, noch bevorzugter von 4 Gew.% bis 7 Gew.%, Ca-12-Hydroxystearat,
3. c) von 4 Gew.% bis 40 Gew.%, noch bevorzugter von 5 Gew.% bis 40 Gew.%, noch bevorzugter von 7 Gew.% bis 40 Gew.%, noch bevorzugter von 10 Gew.% bis 35 Gew.% Additive, umfassend
   • c1) von 1 Gew.% bis 12 Gew.% und/oder von 4 Gew.% bis 12 Gew.%, bevorzugt von 4 Gew.% bis 10 Gew.% pyrogenes Siliciumdioxid,
   • c2) von 2 Gew.% bis 45 Gew.% und/oder von 2 Gew.% bis 25 Gew.%, noch bevorzugter von 5 Gew.% bis 20 Gew.% und insbesondere von 7 Gew.% bis 17 Gew.%, Polyisobutylen,
   • c3) von 0,5 Gew.% bis 20 Gew.% und/oder von 1 Gew.% bis 10 Gew.%, noch bevorzugter von 1 Gew.% bis 9 Gew.% und insbesondere von 1,5 Gew.% bis 8 Gew.% Calciumcarbonat als Festschmierstoff,
   • c5) von 0,3 bis 5 Gew.%, noch bevorzugter von 0,5 bis 2,5 Gew.% und insbesondere von 1 Gew.% bis 2,3 Gew.% Magnesiumoxid als Korrosionsschutzmittel,
   • c6) von 0,3 bis 3 Gew.%, noch bevorzugter von 0,5 bis 2 Gew.%, und insbesondere von 0,8 Gew.% bis 1,5 Gew.% eines phenolischen Antioxidanten.

In another preferred embodiment of the invention, the lubricating grease comprises:

1. a) from 50% by weight to 90% by weight, more preferably from 60% by weight to 80% by weight, more preferably from 65% by weight to 75% by weight, of pentaerythritol ester, in particular pentaerythritol ester of pentaerythritol and isostearic acid, as base oil,
2. b) from 3% to 25% by weight of a thickener selected from
   b1) from 3% to 12% by weight, more preferably from 4% to 10% by weight, more preferably from 4% to 7% by weight, of Ca-12-hydroxystearate,
3. c) from 4% to 40% by weight, more preferably from 5% to 40% by weight, even more preferably from 7% to 40% by weight, even more preferably from 10% to 35% by weight % Additives, comprising
   • c1) from 1% to 12% by weight and/or from 4% to 12% by weight, preferably from 4% to 10% by weight, of pyrogenic silicon dioxide,
   • c2) from 2% to 45% by weight and/or from 2% to 25% by weight, more preferably from 5% to 20% by weight and in particular from 7% to 17% by weight , polyisobutylene,
   • c3) from 0.5% to 20% by weight and/or from 1% to 10% by weight, more preferably from 1% to 9% by weight and in particular from 1.5% to 8% by weight calcium carbonate as a solid lubricant,
   • c5) from 0.3 to 5% by weight, more preferably from 0.5 to 2.5% by weight and in particular from 1% to 2.3% by weight of magnesium oxide as a corrosion inhibitor,
   • c6) from 0.3 to 3%, more preferably from 0.5 to 2%, and especially from 0.8% to 1.5% by weight of a phenolic antioxidant.

1. a) von 50 Gew.% bis 90 Gew.%, noch bevorzugter von 60 Gew.% bis 80 Gew.%, noch bevorzugter von 65 Gew.% bis 75 Gew.% Komplexester, insbesondere Komplexester aus Trimethylolpropan mit einem Gemisch aus mindestens zwei gesättigten oder ungesättigten, verzweigten oder unverzweigten, C₈-C₂₀ -Carbonsäuren, wobei mindestens eine erste Carbonsäure eine gesättigte oder ungesättigte, verzweigte oder unverzweigte C₈-C₂₀-Dicarbonsäure, und mindestens eine zweite Säure eine gesättigte oder ungesättigte, verzweigte oder unverzweigte C₈-C₂₀-Carbonsäure ist, als Grundöl,
2. b) von 3 Gew.% bis 25 Gew.% eines Verdickungsmittels ausgewählt aus
   b1) von 3 Gew.% bis 12 Gew.%, noch bevorzugter von 4 Gew.% bis 10 Gew.%, noch bevorzugter von 4 Gew.% bis 7 Gew.%, Ca-12-Hydroxystearat,
3. c) von 4 Gew.% bis 40 Gew.%, noch bevorzugter von 5 Gew.% bis 40 Gew.%, noch bevorzugter von 7 Gew.% bis 40 Gew.%, noch bevorzugter von 10 Gew.% bis 35 Gew.% Additive, umfassend
   • c1) von 1 Gew.% bis 12 Gew.% und/oder von 4 Gew.% bis 12 Gew.%, bevorzugt von 4 Gew.% bis 10 Gew.% pyrogenes Siliciumdioxid,
   • c2) von 2 Gew.% bis 45 Gew.% und/oder von 2 Gew.% bis 25 Gew.%, noch bevorzugter von 5 Gew.% bis 20 Gew.% und insbesondere von 7 Gew.% bis 17 Gew.%, Polyisobutylen,
   • c3) von 0,5 Gew.% bis 20 Gew.% und/oder von 1 Gew.% bis 10 Gew.%, noch bevorzugter von 1 Gew.% bis 9 Gew.% und insbesondere von 1,5 Gew.% bis 8 Gew.% Calciumcarbonat als Festschmierstoff.

In another preferred embodiment of the invention, the lubricating grease comprises:

1. a) from 50% to 90% by weight, more preferably from 60% to 80% by weight, more preferably from 65% to 75% by weight, of complex esters, in particular complex esters of trimethylolpropane with a mixture of at least two saturated or unsaturated, branched or unbranched, C ₈ -C ₂₀ carboxylic acids, where at least one first carboxylic acid is a saturated or unsaturated, branched or unbranched C ₈ -C ₂₀ dicarboxylic acid, and at least one second acid is a saturated or unsaturated, branched or unbranched C ₈ -C ₂₀ - carboxylic acid is, as base oil,
2. b) from 3% to 25% by weight of a thickener selected from
   b1) from 3% to 12% by weight, more preferably from 4% to 10% by weight, more preferably from 4% to 7% by weight, of Ca-12-hydroxystearate,
3. c) from 4% to 40% by weight, more preferably from 5% to 40% by weight, even more preferably from 7% to 40% by weight, even more preferably from 10% to 35% by weight % Additives, comprising
   • c1) from 1% to 12% by weight and/or from 4% to 12% by weight, preferably from 4% to 10% by weight, of pyrogenic silicon dioxide,
   • c2) from 2% to 45% by weight and/or from 2% to 25% by weight, more preferably from 5% to 20% by weight and in particular from 7% to 17% by weight , polyisobutylene,
   • c3) from 0.5% to 20% by weight and/or from 1% to 10% by weight, more preferably from 1% to 9% by weight and in particular from 1.5% to 8% by weight calcium carbonate as a solid lubricant.

• a) von 50 Gew.% bis 90 Gew.%, noch bevorzugter von 60 Gew.% bis 80 Gew.%, noch bevorzugter von 65 Gew.% bis 75 Gew.% Komplexester, insbesondere Komplexester aus Trimethylolpropan mit einem Gemisch aus mindestens zwei gesättigten, oder ungesättigten, verzweigten oder unverzweigten, C₈-C₂₀ -Carbonsäuren, wobei mindestens eine erste Carbonsäure eine gesättigte, oder ungesättigte, verzweigte oder unverzweigte C₈-C₂₀ -Dicarbonsäure, und mindestens eine zweite Säure eine gesättigte oder ungesättigte, verzweigte oder unverzweigte C₈-C₂₀-Carbonsäure ist als Grundöl,
• c) von 3 Gew.% bis 25 Gew.% eines Verdickungsmittels ausgewählt aus
  b1) von 3 Gew.% bis 12 Gew.%, noch bevorzugter von 4 Gew.% bis 10 Gew.%, noch bevorzugter von 4 Gew.% bis 7 Gew.%, Ca-12-Hydroxystearat,
• c) von 4 Gew.% bis 40 Gew.%, noch bevorzugter von 5 Gew.% bis 40 Gew.%, noch bevorzugter von 7 Gew.% bis 40 Gew.%, noch bevorzugter von 10 Gew.% bis 35 Gew.% Additive, umfassend
  • c1) von 1 Gew.% bis 12 Gew.% und/oder von 4 Gew.% bis 12 Gew.%, bevorzugt von 4 Gew.% bis 10 Gew.%, pyrogenes Siliciumdioxid,
  • c2) von 2 Gew.% bis 45 Gew.% und/oder von 2 Gew.% bis 25 Gew.%, noch bevorzugter von 5 Gew.% bis 20 Gew.% und insbesondere von 7 Gew.% bis 17 Gew.%, Polyisobutylen,
  • c3) von 0,5 Gew.% bis 20 Gew.% und/oder von 1 Gew.% bis 10 Gew.%, noch bevorzugter von 1 Gew.% bis 9 Gew.% und insbesondere von 1,5 Gew.% bis 8 Gew.% Calciumcarbonat als Festschmierstoff,
  • c5) von 0,3 bis 5 Gew.%, noch bevorzugter von 0,5 bis 2,5 Gew.% und insbesondere von 1 Gew.% bis 2,3 Gew.% Magnesiumoxid als Korrosionsschutzmittel,
  • c6) von 0,3 bis 3 Gew.%, noch bevorzugter von 0,5 bis 2 Gew.%, und insbesondere von 0,8 Gew.% bis 1,5 Gew.% eines phenolischen Antioxidanten.

In another preferred embodiment of the invention, the lubricating grease comprises:

• a) from 50% to 90% by weight, more preferably from 60% to 80% by weight, more preferably from 65% to 75% by weight, of complex esters, in particular complex esters of trimethylolpropane with a mixture of at least two saturated, or unsaturated, branched or unbranched, C ₈ -C ₂₀ carboxylic acids, wherein at least one first carboxylic acid is a saturated or unsaturated, branched or unbranched C ₈ -C ₂₀ dicarboxylic acid and at least one second acid is a saturated or unsaturated, branched or unbranched C ₈ -C ₂₀ carboxylic acid as base oil,
• c) from 3% to 25% by weight of a thickener selected from
  b1) from 3% to 12% by weight, more preferably from 4% to 10% by weight, more preferably from 4% to 7% by weight, of Ca-12-hydroxystearate,
• c) from 4% to 40% by weight, more preferably from 5% to 40% by weight, even more preferably from 7% to 40% by weight, even more preferably from 10% to 35% by weight % Additives, comprising
  • c1) from 1% to 12% by weight and/or from 4% to 12% by weight, preferably from 4% to 10% by weight, of pyrogenic silicon dioxide,
  • c2) from 2% to 45% by weight and/or from 2% to 25% by weight, more preferably from 5% to 20% by weight and in particular from 7% to 17% by weight , polyisobutylene,
  • c3) from 0.5% to 20% by weight and/or from 1% to 10% by weight, more preferably from 1% to 9% by weight and in particular from 1.5% to 8% by weight calcium carbonate as a solid lubricant,
  • c5) from 0.3 to 5% by weight, more preferably from 0.5 to 2.5% by weight and in particular from 1% to 2.3% by weight of magnesium oxide as a corrosion inhibitor,
  • c6) from 0.3 to 3%, more preferably from 0.5 to 2%, and especially from 0.8% to 1.5% by weight of a phenolic antioxidant.

Another object of the present invention is the use of the lubricating grease for coating steel cables, in particular galvanized steel cables. Steel cables provided with the lubricating grease according to the invention Due to their high durability, they are ideal for a wide variety of applications where high-performance ropes are required, for example in the marine industry and in the oil and gas industry.

The invention is explained in more detail below using several examples. All examples show excellent lubricating properties when used on steel cables. They can also be used in the presence of water and in a wide temperature range.

Example 1: Production of a lubricating grease according to the invention (lubricating grease 1)

A lubricating grease according to the invention is obtained by mixing components a), b1), c1), c2) and c3). component composition function Amount (% by weight) a) polyol ester base oil 75.0 b1) Calcium 12-hydroxystearate thickener 6.0 c1) Fumed Silica additive 5.0 c2) isobutylene/butene copolymer adhesion promoter 11.0 c3) calcium carbonate solid lubricant 3.0

All of the components of the inventive grease 1 are biodegradable, if not biodegradable, then non-bioaccumulating, and exhibit no or minimal toxicity. Consequently, the lubricating grease 1 according to the invention meets the criteria for environmentally compatible lubricants (EAL=Environmentally Acceptable Lubricants) according to Appendix A of the 2013 Vessel General Permit.

Physico-chemical properties of example 1 are shown in Table 1: standard test designation result ISO 2176 drop point > 200°C DIN 51807 Static water resistance 0 ASTM D 4049 Water Spray off < 20% KL-PN 010 zinc corrosion <0.01% DIN 58397 T1 evaporative loss <5%

Example 2: Production of a lubricating grease according to the invention (lubricating grease 2)

A lubricating grease according to the invention is obtained by mixing components a), b1), c1), c2), c3), c5) and c6). component composition function Amount (% by weight) a) polyol ester base oil 70.0 b1) Calcium 12-hydroxystearate thickener 5.5 c1) Fumed Silica additive 4.0 c2) isobutylene/butene copolymer adhesion promoter 15.0 c3) calcium carbonate solid lubricant 2.0 c5) magnesium oxide corrosion protection 2.5 c6) Phenolic antioxidant antioxidant 1.0

Also, the components of the inventive grease 2 are biodegradable, if not biodegradable then not bioaccumulating, and exhibit no or minimal toxicity. Consequently, the lubricating grease 1 according to the invention meets the criteria for environmentally compatible Lubricants (EAL = Environmentally Acceptable Lubricants) according to Appendix A of the 2013 Vessel General Permit.

Physico-chemical properties of example 2 are shown in Table 2: standard test designation result ISO 2176 drop point > 200°C DIN 51807 Static water resistance 0 ASTM D 4049 Water Spray off < 20% KL-PN 010 zinc corrosion <0.01% DIN 58397 T1 evaporative loss <5%

Example 3: Production of a lubricating grease according to the invention (lubricating grease 3)

A lubricating grease according to the invention is obtained by mixing components a), b1), b2), c1), c2) and c3). component composition function Amount (% by weight) a) polyol ester base oil 68.0 b1) (b3) Calcium 12-hydroxystearate thickener 5.0 b2) (b3) Benton it thickener 4.0 c1) Fumed Silica additive 4.0 c2) isobutylene/butene copolymer adhesion promoter 6.0 c2) complex ester adhesion promoter 10.0 c3) zinc sulfide solid lubricant 3.0

The components of the lubricating grease 3 according to the invention are also biodegradable, if not biodegradable then not bioaccumulating, and have no or minimal toxicity. Consequently, the lubricating grease 3 according to the invention meets the criteria for environmentally compatible lubricants (EAL=Environmentally Acceptable Lubricants) according to Appendix A of the 2013 Vessel General Permit.

Physico-chemical properties of example 3 are shown in Table 3: standard test designation result ISO 2176 drop point > 200°C DIN 51807 Static water resistance 0 ASTM D 4049 Water Spray off < 10% KL-PN 010 zinc corrosion <0.05% DIN 58397 T1 evaporative loss < 5%

Example 4: Production of a lubricating grease according to the invention (lubricating grease 4)

A lubricating grease according to the invention is obtained by mixing components a), b1), b2), c1), c2) and c3). component composition function Amount (% by weight) a) polyol ester base oil 71.0 b1) (b3) Calcium 12-hydroxystearate thickener 5.0 b2) (b3) Benton it thickener 3.0 c1) Fumed Silica additive 4.0 c2) isobutylene/butene copolymer adhesion promoter 9.0 c2) polymethacrylate adhesion promoter 4.0 c3) zinc sulfide solid lubricant 4.0

Also, the components of the inventive grease 4 are biodegradable, if not biodegradable then not bioaccumulating, and exhibit no or minimal toxicity. Consequently, the lubricating grease 4 according to the invention meets the criteria for environmentally compatible lubricants (EAL=Environmentally Acceptable Lubricants) according to Appendix A of the 2013 Vessel General Permit.

Table 4 shows physicochemical properties of Example 4: standard test designation result ISO 2176 drop point > 200°C DIN 51807 Static water resistance 0 ASTM D 4049 Water Spray off < 10% (7%) KL-PN 010 zinc corrosion <0.1% (0.06%) DIN 58397 T1 evaporative loss < 5%

Example 5: Production of a lubricating grease according to the invention (lubricating grease 5)

A lubricating grease according to the invention is obtained by mixing components a), b1), c1), c2) and c3). component composition function Amount (% by weight) a) polyol ester base oil 75 b1) Calcium 12-hydroxystearate thickener 4 c1) Fumed Silica additive 6.0 c2) isobutylene/butene copolymer adhesion promoter 8.0 c2) polymethacrylate adhesion promoter 2.0 c2) complex ester adhesion promoter 3.0 c3) zinc sulfide solid lubricant 2.0

Also, the components of the inventive grease 5 are biodegradable, if not biodegradable then not bioaccumulating, and exhibit no or minimal toxicity. Consequently, the lubricating grease 5 according to the invention meets the criteria for environmentally compatible lubricants (EAL=Environmentally Acceptable Lubricants) according to Appendix A of the 2013 Vessel General Permit.

Table 5 shows physicochemical properties of Example 5: standard test designation result ISO 2176 drop point >200°C DIN 51807 Static water resistance 1 ASTM D 4049 Water Spray off < 30% KL-PN 010 zinc corrosion <0.02% DIN 58397 T1 evaporative loss < 5%

Example 6: Production of a lubricating grease according to the invention (lubricating grease 6)

A lubricating grease according to the invention is obtained by mixing components a), b1), b2), c1), c2), c3), c4), c5) and c6). component composition function Amount (% by weight) a) polyol ester base oil 64.0 b1) (b3) Calcium 12-hydroxystearate thickener 4.0 b2) (b3) Benton it thickener 7.0 c1) Fumed Silica additive 4.0 c2) isobutylene/butene copolymer adhesion promoter 10.0 c3) calcium stearate solid lubricant 7.0 c4) succinic acid derivative corrosion protection 2.0 c5) magnesium oxide corrosion protection 1.0 c6) Phenolic antioxidant antioxidant 1.0

Also, the components of the inventive grease 6 are biodegradable, if not biodegradable then not bioaccumulating, and exhibit no or minimal toxicity. Consequently, the lubricating grease 6 according to the invention meets the criteria for environmentally compatible lubricants (EAL=Environmentally Acceptable Lubricants) according to Appendix A of the 2013 Vessel General Permit.

Table 6 shows physicochemical properties of Example 6: standard test designation result ISO 2176 drop point > 200°C DIN 51807 Static water resistance 0 ASTM D 4049 Water Spray off < 10% KL-PN 010 zinc corrosion <0.1% DIN 58397 T1 evaporative loss < 5%

Example 7: Production of a lubricating grease according to the invention (lubricating grease 7)

A lubricating grease according to the invention is obtained by mixing components a), b2), c1), c2), c3), c5) and c6). component composition function Amount (% by weight) a) pentaerytriester base oil 71.0 b2) Benton it thickener 12.0 c1) Fumed Silica additive 2.0 c2) complex ester adhesion promoter 4.0 c2) polymethacrylate adhesion promoter 3.0 c3) calcium stearate solid lubricant 5.0 c5) magnesium oxide corrosion protection 2.0 c6) Phenolic antioxidant antioxidant 1.0

Also, the components of the inventive grease 7 are biodegradable, if not biodegradable then not bioaccumulating, and exhibit no or minimal toxicity. In addition, the lubricating grease 7 according to the invention meets the criteria for environmentally compatible lubricants (EAL=Environmentally Acceptable Lubricants) according to Appendix A of the 2013 Vessel General Permit.

Table 7 shows physicochemical properties of Example 7: standard test designation result ISO 2176 drop point > 200°C DIN 51807 Static water resistance 1 ASTM D 4049 Water Spray off < 20% KL-PN 010 zinc corrosion <0.05% DIN 58397 T1 evaporative loss < 5%

Example 8: Production of a lubricating grease according to the invention (grease 8)

A lubricating grease according to the invention is obtained by mixing components a), b1), c1), c2), c3), c5) and c6). component composition function Amount (% by weight) a) Pentaerythrite ester from pentaerythritol and isostearic acid base oil 70.0 b1) Ca-12-Hydroxystearate thickener 6.0 c1) Fumed Silica additive 6.0 c2) polyisobutylene adhesion promoter 13.0 c3) calcium carbonate solid lubricant 2.0 c5) magnesium oxide corrosion protection 2.0 c6) Phenolic antioxidant antioxidant 1.0

Also, the components of the inventive grease 8 are biodegradable, if not biodegradable then not bioaccumulating, and exhibit no or minimal toxicity. In addition, the lubricating grease 8 according to the invention meets the criteria for environmentally compatible lubricants (EAL=Environmentally Acceptable Lubricants) according to Appendix A of the 2013 Vessel General Permit.

Table 8 shows physicochemical properties of Example 8: standard test designation result ISO 2176 drop point > 200°C DIN 51807 Static water resistance 0 ASTM D 4049 Water Spray off < 10% KL-PN 010 zinc corrosion <0.01% DIN 58397 T1 evaporative loss < 5%

Example 9: Production of a lubricating grease according to the invention (grease 9)

A lubricating grease according to the invention is obtained by mixing components a), b1), c1), c2), c3), c5) and c6). component composition function Amount (% by weight) a) Complex esters based on trimethylolpropane, sebacic acid, stearic acid and isostearic acid base oil 70.0 b1) Ca-12-Hydroxystearate thickener 7.0 c1) Fumed Silica additive 5.0 c2) polyisobutylene adhesion promoter 11.0 c3) calcium carbonate solid lubricant 4.0 c5) magnesium oxide corrosion protection 2.0 c6) Phenolic antioxidant antioxidant 1.0

Also, the components of the inventive grease 9 are biodegradable, if not biodegradable then not bioaccumulating, and exhibit no or minimal toxicity. In addition, the lubricating grease 9 according to the invention meets the criteria for environmentally compatible lubricants (EAL=Environmentally Acceptable Lubricants) according to Appendix A of the 2013 Vessel General Permit.

Table 9 shows physicochemical properties of Example 9: standard test designation result ISO 2176 drop point > 200°C DIN 51807 Static water resistance 0 ASTM D 4049 Water Spray off < 5% KL-PN 010 zinc corrosion <0.01% DIN 58397 T1 evaporative loss < 5%

Example 10: Production of a lubricating grease according to the invention (grease 10)

A lubricating grease according to the invention is obtained by mixing components a), b1), c1), c2), c3), c5) and c6). component composition function Amount (% by weight) a) Oil soluble polyglycol base oil 68.0 b1) Ca-12-Hydroxystearate thickener 8.0 c1) Fumed Silica additive 5.0 c2) polyisobutylene adhesion promoter 14.0 c3) calcium carbonate solid lubricant 2.0 c5) magnesium oxide corrosion protection 2.0 c6) Phenolic antioxidant antioxidant 1.0

Also, the components of the grease 10 of the present invention are biodegradable, if not biodegradable then not bioaccumulating, and have no or minimal toxicity. In addition, the lubricating grease 10 according to the invention meets the criteria for environmentally compatible lubricants (EAL=Environmentally Acceptable Lubricants) according to Appendix A of the 2013 Vessel General Permit.

Table 10 shows physicochemical properties of example 10: standard test designation result ISO 2176 drop point ≥ 150°C DIN 51807 Static water resistance 0 ASTM D 4049 Water Spray off < 65% KL-PN 010 zinc corrosion <0.0005%

Example 11: Production of a lubricating grease according to the invention (grease 11)

A lubricating grease according to the invention is obtained by mixing components a), b2), c1), c2), c3), c5) and c6). component composition function Amount (% by weight) a) polyol ester base oil 70.0 b2) Benton it thickener 18.0 c1) polytetrafluoroethylene additive 1.0 c2) polyisobutylene adhesion promoter 2.0 c3) calcium stearate solid lubricant 6.0 c5) magnesium oxide corrosion protection 2.0 c6) Phenolic antioxidant antioxidant 1.0

Also, the components of the grease 11 of the present invention are biodegradable, if not biodegradable then not bioaccumulating, and have no or minimal toxicity. In addition, the lubricating grease 11 according to the invention meets the criteria for environmentally compatible lubricants (EAL=Environmentally Acceptable Lubricants) according to Appendix A of the 2013 Vessel General Permit.

Table 11 shows physicochemical properties of Example 11: standard test designation result ISO 2176 drop point ≥ 200°C DIN 51807 Static water resistance 1 ASTM D 4049 Water Spray off < 15% KL-PN 010 zinc corrosion <0.05% DIN 58397 T1 evaporative loss < 10%

Example 12: Production of a lubricating grease according to the invention (grease 12)

A lubricating grease according to the invention is obtained by mixing components a), b1), c1), c2), c3), c5) and c6). component composition function Amount (% by weight) a) polyol ester base oil 70.0 b1) Ca-12-Hydroxystearate thickener 7.0 c1) Fumed Silica additive 1.0 c2) polyisobutylene adhesion promoter 17.0 c3) calcium stearate solid lubricant 2.0 c5) magnesium oxide corrosion protection 2.0 c6) Phenolic antioxidant antioxidant 1.0

Also, the components of the grease 12 of the present invention are biodegradable, if not biodegradable then not bioaccumulating, and have no or minimal toxicity. In addition, the lubricating grease 12 according to the invention meets the criteria for environmentally compatible lubricants (EAL=Environmentally Acceptable Lubricants) according to Appendix A of the 2013 Vessel General Permit.

Table 12 shows physicochemical properties of example 12: standard test designation result ISO 2176 drop point ≥ 150°C DIN 51807 Static water resistance 0 ASTM D 4049 Water Spray off < 20% KL-PN 010 zinc corrosion <0.005% DIN 58397 T1 evaporative loss < 5%

Example 13: Production of a lubricating grease according to the invention (grease 13)

A lubricating grease according to the invention is obtained by mixing components a), b1), c1), c2), c3), c5) and c6). component composition function Amount (% by weight) a) polyol ester base oil 60.0 b1) Ca-12-Hydroxystearate thickener 3.0 c1) Fumed Silica additive 8.0 c1) polytetrafluoroethylene additive 4.0 c2) polyisobutylene adhesion promoter 5.0 c3) calcium stearate solid lubricant 17.0 c5) magnesium oxide corrosion protection 2.0 c6) Phenolic antioxidant antioxidant 1.0

Also, the components of the grease 13 of the present invention are biodegradable, if not biodegradable then not bioaccumulating, and have no or minimal toxicity. In addition, the lubricating grease 13 according to the invention meets the criteria for environmentally compatible lubricants (EAL=Environmentally Acceptable Lubricants) according to Appendix A of the 2013 Vessel General Permit.

Table 13 shows physicochemical properties of Example 13: standard test designation result ISO 2176 drop point ≥ 150°C DIN 51807 Static water resistance 0 ASTM D 4049 Water Spray off < 20% KL-PN 010 zinc corrosion <0.02% DIN 58397 T1 evaporative loss < 5%

Claims (10)

1. Environmentally compatible lubricant grease comprising:

   a) from 50% by weight to 90% by weight of a biodegradable base oil, especially a biodegradable ester as base oil, where the viscosity of the biodegradable ester at 40°C is from 50 mm²/s to 1200 mm²/s,

   b) from 3% by weight to 25% by weight or 7% by weight to 20% by weight of a thickener selected from

   b1) from 3% by weight to 12% by weight of biodegradable calcium soap,

   b2) from 3% by weight to 25% by weight or 3.5% by weight to 20% by weight or 4% by weight to 12% by weight of bentonites,

   b3) and mixtures thereof,

   c) from 4% by weight to 40% by weight, preferably from 7% by weight to 40% by weight, of additives comprising

   c1) from 1% by weight to 12% by weight or 4% by weight to 12% by weight of fumed silicon dioxide and/or polytetrafluoroethylene and/or mixtures thereof,

   c2) from 2% by weight to 25% by weight of a polymer selected from polyisobutylene, polyisobutylene/butene copolymer, polymethacrylates, polyesters, preferably complex esters, especially complex esters of neopentyl glycol/dimer acid/2-ethylhexanol and mixtures thereof, a complex ester being understood to mean a polyester which is prepared by reaction of polyols with dicarboxylic acids, and optionally monocarboxylic acids, and
   where the polymers c2) have a viscosity at 100°C of at least 600 mm²/s,

   c3) from 0.5% by weight to 20% by weight or 1% by weight to 10% by weight of a solid lubricant,

   wherein the lubricant grease meets the requirements for environmentally acceptable lubricants (EALs) according to Appendix A of the 2013 Vessel General Permit and is therefore also usable for components that can come into contact with seawater.
2. Lubricant grease according to Claim 1, characterized by a dropping point according to standard DIN ISO 2176 of more than 150°C.
3. Lubricant grease according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized by an upper service temperature (UST) to standard DIN 58397 Part 1 of at least 150°C.
4. Lubricant grease according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the biodegradable base oil a) is a biodegradable ester and the base oil a) and/or the lubricant grease has a thermal stability, determinable via TGA (DIN 51006) of 150°C to 200°C and/or a volatility, measured to DIN 58397, of < 10% by weight, preferably < 5% by weight, and/or a TAN delta, measured to DIN ASTM D-2619 (with prolonged run time of 400 h) of 0.0 mg KOH/g to 20 mg KOH/g and/or an acid content (TAN) of less than 5 mg KOH/g.
5. Lubricant grease according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the biodegradable base oil a) is a biodegradable ester, and in that the viscosity of the biodegradable ester at 40°C is at least 50 mm²/sec.
6. Lubricant grease according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the biodegradable calcium soap b1) is selected from calcium soaps of fatty acids, especially calcium 12-hydroxystearate.
7. Lubricant grease according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the fumed silicon dioxide (c1) is selected from silica having a specific surface area of 90 to 130 m²/g.
8. Lubricant grease according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the polymers of component c2) have a viscosity, measured to DIN 51562 part 1 at 100°C, of at least 4000 mm²/s.
9. Lubricant grease according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the component c5) used is an anticorrosive, preferably selected from alkaline earth metal oxides, especially calcium oxide and/or magnesium oxide, and calcium, magnesium and/or sodium sulfonates or calcium, magnesium and/or sodium salts of C₈-C₂₀ dicarboxylic acids, especially disodium sebacate.
10. Use of a lubricant grease according to one or more of the preceding claims for coating of steel ropes, especially galvanized steel ropes.