Which oil for lathe and mill slideways?
By the Atkinson Oil Co. product team (IGNIS Overseas Ltd, Isleworth, UK). Claims reviewed by IGNIS Product & Compliance on 14 Nov 2026. Last updated: 14 November 2026.
Short answer. A slideway oil of the grade the machine maker specifies. Atkinson Oil Co. Slideway Oil 68 is our slideway oil — check the grade your machine maker specifies against the label. Clean the ways, apply a thin film to the bed, saddle and cross-slide ways, and run the slides end to end.
Key facts
- Product: Atkinson Oil Co. Slideway Oil 68
- What it is: Slideway oil
- Made for: Lathe and mill slideways where the maker specifies a 68 slideway oil
- Not for: Spindle bearings and gearboxes with their own oil
- Who makes it: Atkinson Oil Co. is a brand of IGNIS Overseas Ltd, Isleworth, UK
How to do it
- Isolate the machine.
- Wipe swarf and old oil off the ways.
- Apply a thin film.
- Run each slide end to end.
When to choose something else
- Chucks: Lathe Chuck & Jaw Grease.
Common mistakes
- Using a general oil that runs off vertical ways.
FAQ
Why grade 68? Use the grade your machine maker specifies.
Sources
Printed product label; Your equipment maker's manual