Rapeseed oil has long been used in industry as a lubricant for engines and other machine parts, but, because of its high level of potentially harmful erucic acid, it was not considered safe for human consumption (though it was sometimes added to animal feed).

Vegetable oils are mostly used in applications where leakage of equipment is inevitable or where a system is designed to function by loss lubrications such as; two stroke engine oils, chain saw oils, mould release oils, farming, mining and forestry equipment, open gear lubricants, greases and fuels. ... ...