IKO's Liquid Crystal Lubricant Now Available for Sample Requests

IKO, a manufacturer of needle bearings, linear motion rolling guides, precision positioning tables, and machine components, is accepting requests for its new Liquid Crystal Lubricant, a lubricant formulated using only liquid crystal compounds.

Samples are available in two sizes:

• 2.5 milliliters (MG2.5B/LCL01)
• 10 milliliters (MG10B/LCL01)

The lubricant offers an alternative to traditional greases, which rely on oil-and-thickener blends that do not adhere well to metal and tend to evaporate over time. Instead of that conventional mix, this lubricant uses a layered structure that glides smoothly and holds together more reliably. As a result, it clings better to metal surfaces, reduces material loss, and delivers stronger performance in rolling applications.

When IKO tested its Liquid Crystal Lubricant, the results showed strong stability and cleanliness across several performance metrics. Mass spectrometry revealed very little outgassing even at 10-⁵ Pa and elevated temperatures of 100°C and 200°C. The lubricant also demonstrated zero net weight loss in open-air evaporation testing at 100°C over 770 hours (32 days). Additionally, it generated only one-tenth the particle output of lithium soap-based grease and outperformed both cleanroom and vacuum greases in dust-generation tests. Other results showed a much better long-term durability and lower rolling resistance when compared to conventional lubricants. 

IKO notes that this technology is suited for bearings used in semiconductor fabrication, high-vacuum systems, space applications, life-science equipment, and robotics.

To request a sample, contact the appropriate IKO location or regional sales representative listed on the company's website.