Machinery Lubrication magazine published by Noria Corporation
Issue link: http://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/520842
38 | May- June 2015 | www.machinerylubrication.com L u b r i c a t i o n P r o g r a m s hen implementing a formal lubrication program to improve reliability and reduce operating costs, it is necessary to have a holistic and systemic vision of the project. This will require taking into account several elements collectively in order to achieve the desired results. Whether the program is for a fi xed plant or a mobile fl eet, the lubrication-related factors to consider can be described according to the lubricant's life cycle. These include lubricant selection, lubri- cant reception and storage, lubricant handling and application, contamination control, lubricant analysis, and lubricant disposal. Following is a brief explanation of each element. Lubricant Selection When a new machine is put into operation, one of the fi rst ques- tions that arises is about the lubricant to select for proper operation and warranty protection. The equipment manufacturer's operating manual and technical service representatives are commonly consulted for recommendations. The lubricant supplier may also be involved in this process. In the end, the decision often rests with the reliability or engineering department. Several factors should be considered, such as the required specifi cations and performance, possible lubricant consolidation, product packaging, the needed stock for proper handling and application, lubricant identifi cation across the plant, purchasing procedures, and product delivery. The technical specifi cations should also be defi ned for the necessary consumables and lubrication-related hardware. Lubricant Reception and Storage When the purchased lubricant is received, it should be inspected to ensure it meets certain quality standards and comes in the correct amount, package size and time required. Routine tests should be performed on the new lubricant, and a sampling plan established with the appropriate test slates and limits. Once the lubricant is accepted, it should be stored in a conve- nient area that maximizes the lubricant's storage life and integrity. All involved personnel must be sure to follow the safety procedures and environmental awareness practices. These requirements will continue for the rest of the product's life cycle. Proper lubricant identifi cation also begins at this point. Lubricant Handling and Application Careful handling will help safeguard lubricant integrity, safety and environmental protection while preparing the lubricant for application. An excellent proactive practice is to fi lter the new lubricant before it is used. Quality fi ltration and dehydration systems will likely be required to reach the cleanliness targets estab- lished for each product. It is also important to have a clean lube room along with sealed containers, appropriate tools, adequate training and detailed procedures. Lubricant application activities encompass all tasks that facil- itate the correct product application, administration and inspection while the lubricant is in service. These activities include oil change-outs, top-ups, fi ltering, regreasing, oil condition inspections and machine condition inspections. Each activity should be executed according to a scheduled plan with documen- tation detailing the machine's status, safety procedures, tasks to be completed, etc. All activities should also be supported by appropriate training and awareness. B Y AL E JA NDRO ME Z A | NORI A CORPOR AT ION PERSPECTIVE 6 KEYS for a Reliability-centered Lubrication PROGRAM W