Extreme pressure (EP) additives protect lubricants under high loads and sliding contact. Sulfur carriers and chlorinated paraffins are traditional EP chemistries used in industrial and metalworking fluids.
Chemically, sulfurized compounds react with metal surfaces to form protective layers under extreme conditions. Chlorinated paraffins have in the past offered strong EP performance but face regulatory restrictions due to environmental and health concerns.
EP additives emerged as industrial machinery and metalworking processes demanded higher load-carrying capacity. Over time, chemistries evolved to balance performance, corrosion control and compatibility with modern base oils.
Geographically, EP additive demand tracks industrial activity. Asia leads growth due to manufacturing expansion. Europe faces regulatory pressures, while North America remains a key market for metalworking fluids.
Market trends show a shift toward safer, compliant EP chemistries while maintaining performance. Despite electrification trends, EP additives remain indispensable for heavy industrial applications worldwide.