Selecting the correct grease is an essential part of aircraft maintenance. Every lubrication point on an aircraft has been carefully designed to operate with products that meet specific performance requirements, and using the wrong grease can lead to premature wear, corrosion or costly maintenance issues.
One of the most widely recognised products in aerospace lubrication is AeroShell 64. Formerly known as AeroShell Grease 33MS, AeroShell 64 combines the proven performance of AeroShell 33 with the addition of molybdenum disulphide (MoS₂), providing enhanced protection in heavily loaded applications.
Whether you're an airline, MRO, defence contractor or aerospace procurement specialist, understanding where AeroShell 64 should be used can help improve maintenance efficiency and ensure compliance with OEM specifications.
- What AeroShell 64 is
- How it differs from AeroShell 33
- Typical aerospace applications
- Key benefits
- Storage and procurement considerations
- How Aero Distribution Group can support your requirements
What Is AeroShell 64?
AeroShell 64 is a synthetic lithium complex grease developed specifically for aerospace applications that require additional protection against wear under high loads.
The product contains 5% molybdenum disulphide (MoS₂), a solid lubricant that provides extra protection when metal surfaces experience extreme pressure or temporary lubrication breakdown.
Because of this, AeroShell 64 is commonly specified for heavily loaded aircraft components where enhanced anti-wear performance is required.
It is approved by many aircraft manufacturers and is widely used across commercial aviation, military aircraft, helicopters and business aviation.
Why Was AeroShell Grease 33MS Renamed AeroShell 64?
Many engineers and procurement teams still refer to AeroShell Grease 33MS.
To simplify the product range, Shell renamed AeroShell Grease 33MS as AeroShell 64.
The formulation remains the same, meaning organisations already using 33MS can simply transition to the new product name where approved by the manufacturer.
This is one of the reasons AeroShell 64 is frequently searched online by both its current and former product names.
Key Benefits of AeroShell 64
Enhanced Wear Protection
The addition of molybdenum disulphide provides extra protection against wear in components subjected to high mechanical loads.
This makes AeroShell 64 particularly suitable for applications involving sliding contact or high-pressure surfaces.
Excellent Corrosion Resistance
Aircraft are routinely exposed to rain, humidity, salt air and cleaning chemicals.
AeroShell 64 helps protect lubricated components against corrosion, extending service life and reducing maintenance requirements.
Wide Temperature Performance
Aircraft operate in environments ranging from sub-zero temperatures at altitude to extreme heat on the ground.
AeroShell 64 is designed to maintain consistent lubrication performance across a broad operating temperature range.
Outstanding Mechanical Stability
The grease maintains its consistency under repeated loading, helping prevent separation and ensuring long-term lubrication performance.
Water Resistance
Moisture can significantly reduce the effectiveness of some lubricants.
AeroShell 64 offers excellent resistance to water washout, helping protect components in demanding operating environments.
Typical Aerospace Applications
AeroShell 64 is commonly used in applications where higher load carrying capability is required.
Typical examples include:
- Landing gear assemblies
- Wheel bearings (where approved)
- Actuator systems
- Flight control mechanisms
- Helicopter rotor systems
- High-load bearings
- Military aircraft components
- Aircraft hinges
- Mechanical linkages
Always refer to the Aircraft Maintenance Manual (AMM), Component Maintenance Manual (CMM) or OEM-approved lubrication schedule before selecting any grease.
AeroShell 64 vs AeroShell 33
What's the difference between AeroShell 33 and AeroShell 64?
Although both products are based on similar synthetic grease technology, AeroShell 64 contains molybdenum disulphide, giving it improved performance in heavily loaded applications.
| Feature | AeroShell 33 | AeroShell 64 |
|---|---|---|
| Base Grease | Synthetic Lithium Complex | Synthetic Lithium Complex |
| Molybdenum Disulphide | No | Yes (5%) |
| General Airframe Use | ✔ | ✔ (where approved) |
| High Load Applications | Limited | Excellent |
| Corrosion Protection | Excellent | Excellent |
| Water Resistance | Excellent | Excellent |
Neither product should be considered interchangeable unless specifically approved by the aircraft manufacturer.
Industries That Use AeroShell 64
Commercial Aviation
Airlines rely on approved lubricants to minimise maintenance issues and maximise aircraft availability.
Defence Aviation
Military aircraft often operate under demanding conditions where additional wear protection is essential.
Helicopter Operations
Rotor systems and heavily loaded moving components frequently require specialist greases with enhanced anti-wear performance.
MRO Facilities
Maintenance organisations use AeroShell 64 during scheduled servicing, overhauls and component replacement programmes.
Aerospace Manufacturing
OEMs specify approved greases throughout production and assembly processes.
Procurement Considerations
Ordering aerospace lubricants involves more than selecting the correct product.
Procurement teams should also consider:
Product Authenticity
Only purchase genuine AeroShell products through trusted aerospace supply chains.
Remaining Shelf Life
Always confirm that products have sufficient remaining shelf life to support maintenance schedules.
Packaging Options
Depending on operational requirements, AeroShell 64 may be available in different packaging sizes.
Choosing the appropriate format helps reduce waste and improve inventory management.
Technical Documentation
A specialist aerospace distributor should provide:
- Certificate of Conformance (CoC)
- Technical Data Sheet (TDS)
- Safety Data Sheet (SDS)
- Batch traceability
These documents are essential for quality assurance and regulatory compliance.
Storage Recommendations
To maintain product performance:
- Store in a cool, dry environment.
- Keep containers sealed until use.
- Protect against contamination.
- Rotate inventory using First In, First Out (FIFO).
- Monitor shelf life before installation.
Proper storage helps preserve lubricant integrity and reduce unnecessary waste.
Why Choose Aero Distribution Group?
Aero Distribution Group supplies genuine aerospace lubricants, sealants, adhesives and specialty chemicals to customers around the world.
We work with airlines, OEMs, defence organisations and MRO facilities to source approved aerospace materials backed by responsive service and technical expertise.
Our customers benefit from:
- Genuine aerospace products
- Fast quotation turnaround
- Global sourcing capabilities
- Technical product support
- Competitive pricing
- Certificate of Conformance (CoC)
- Technical Data Sheets (TDS)
- Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
- Flexible supply solutions
- Reliable customer service
Whether you're sourcing AeroShell 64 for routine maintenance or urgent AOG requirements, our team can help.
Request a Quote for AeroShell 64 grease
Aero Distribution Group supports aerospace buyers with genuine materials, responsive RFQ handling, documentation checks and worldwide sourcing support.
Send your requirement to ADG with product code, quantity, packaging, delivery location, required date, shelf-life expectations and any CoC, TDS or SDS requirements.
Use the RFQ page to send part numbers, pack sizes, quantities, delivery requirements and documentation needs.
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AeroShell 64 grease FAQs
What is AeroShell 64 used for?
AeroShell 64 is a synthetic aerospace grease containing molybdenum disulphide (MoS₂), commonly used in heavily loaded aircraft components where enhanced wear protection is required.
Is AeroShell 64 the same as AeroShell Grease 33MS?
Yes. AeroShell Grease 33MS was renamed AeroShell 64 by Shell. The product formulation remains the same.
Can AeroShell 64 replace AeroShell 33?
Not necessarily. While the products are closely related, AeroShell 64 contains molybdenum disulphide and should only be used where approved by the aircraft manufacturer or maintenance manual.
What documentation should accompany AeroShell 64?
Most aerospace organisations require Certificates of Conformance (CoC), Technical Data Sheets (TDS), Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and batch traceability.
Can Aero Distribution Group supply AeroShell 64 worldwide?
Yes. Aero Distribution Group supplies genuine AeroShell lubricants and aerospace consumables to customers globally, supported by technical documentation and responsive customer service.
Include product codes, pack sizes, destination, required delivery date, shelf-life expectations and any CoC, TDS or SDS requirements.