"EP2" and "MP3" are not formal standards. They are trade shorthand used across India for the two most common general greases. Knowing what each name usually stands for helps you buy the right one, and spot when neither is right.
EP2 usually means an extreme-pressure grease of NLGI 2 consistency, typically lithium-based, for loaded and shock-loaded bearings. MP3 usually means a multipurpose grease of NLGI 3 consistency, without strong EP additives, for general and lightly loaded bearings. EP2 is the safer choice for industrial machinery under load; MP3 suits general-purpose points where the maker asks for a firmer grease.
Because the names are not standardised, the thickener can vary. Most EP2 and MP3 greases on the Indian market are lithium soap, but some MP3 products use calcium soap, which behaves differently in heat and water. Always check the data sheet.
| EP2 | MP3 | |
|---|---|---|
| Consistency | NLGI 2 (softer) | NLGI 3 (firmer) |
| EP additives | Yes | Usually no or mild |
| Usual thickener | Lithium (sometimes lithium complex) | Lithium or calcium |
| Load capacity | Higher; handles shock | Moderate |
| Pumpability in grease guns | Easier | Firmer |
| Typical uses | Loaded bearings, conveyors, crushers, vibrating screens, steel and cement plants | General bearings, light machinery, some automotive and farm points |
| Situation | Better choice |
|---|---|
| Continuous temperatures above about 120 °C | Lithium complex, calcium sulphonate complex or polyurea grease |
| Wet areas, water spray, washdown | Calcium sulphonate complex grease |
| Very slow, heavily loaded bearings | Higher base oil viscosity, possibly MoS₂ grease |
| Centralised lubrication systems | Soft grease, NLGI 0 or 00 |
| Food, pharma and packaging lines | NSF H1 food-grade grease |
| Sealed-for-life electric motor bearings | Polyurea or the grease the motor maker specifies |
Our high-temperature grease guide explains the hot-running options in more detail. And as we discuss in Is multipurpose grease really suitable for everything?, one grease for every point usually means compromises somewhere.
Most lithium greases are compatible with each other, but calcium and lithium complex greases, and especially polyurea, may not be. When changing, purge the old grease out of the bearing as far as possible and watch the bearing temperature for a few days. Read can you mix two different greases?
Ask for, or read on the data sheet:
A grease that is sold only as "EP2" with no data sheet is a gamble.
Can I use EP2 grease instead of MP3?In most bearings, yes. EP2 is softer and has EP additives, so it suits loaded bearings well. Where the maker specifies NLGI 3 because the grease must stay put, check that a softer grease will not leak out.
Is MP3 grease lithium-based?Often, but not always. Some MP3 greases use calcium soap. Check the data sheet, especially for hot or wet positions.
Which is better for wheel bearings, EP2 or MP3?Follow the vehicle or machine maker. Many wheel bearings use an NLGI 2 or 3 lithium or lithium complex grease with EP additives.
Does grease colour tell me whether it is EP2 or MP3?No. Colour is just dye. Read the label and the data sheet.
Tell us the equipment, load, speed and temperature, and our team will tell you whether EP2, MP3 or a speciality grease is the right fit.