kenés

Kenés is a Hungarian noun that denotes the act or process of applying a lubricant to a surface, most often to mechanical parts, in order to reduce friction and wear. The term derives from the verb kenni, meaning to grease or smear, with the -és suffix forming a noun.

In practice, kenés covers the lubrication of engines, gearboxes, bearings, chains, and other moving parts. It is central to preventive maintenance in automotive, industrial machinery, bicycles, and household equipment. Kenés may involve oiling with liquid lubricants, greasing with thick lubricants, or employing dry lubrication where appropriate. The choice depends on the equipment, operating conditions, and manufacturer specifications.

Common lubricants used in kenés include mineral oil, synthetic oils, and greases (kenőanyag). Application methods range from manual oiling and brushing to spray applications or grease guns. After application, excess lubricant is often wiped away to prevent dirt buildup, and surfaces are typically cleaned prior to kenés to ensure proper adhesion and distribution.

Routine kenés is guided by a kenési rend (lubrication schedule) to maintain reliability, minimize wear, and extend service life. Poor or neglected kenés can lead to increased friction, overheating, corrosion, and component failure. The concept is closely related to tribology, the study of friction, wear, and lubrication.