Machinery Lubrication magazine published by Noria Corporation
Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1148092
Keep in mind that properly installed, operated and maintained machines generally have a long life, regardless of the industry or machine type. If you experience repairs or replacements within a relatively short period of time (a few months or one to two years), you likely have the potential for improved machine reliability. Oil Analysis Program Has Become Routine Over the years, Noria has seen many instances when the oil analysis program for a plant or fl eet has become routine. Oil samples are taken and sent to the laboratory. When reports are received from the lab, they are quickly scanned for any fl agged issues. If an abnormal condition is detected, action is taken, such as an oil change. However, when the program's eff ectiveness is studied in depth, it often is discovered that some of the red and green fl ags were not accurate, certain samples may not have been collected properly or results were not interpreted according to the machine's specifi c conditions. Also, statistical analysis of the results may not have been performed to identify failure patterns or the need for main- tenance improvement. In addition, if personnel do not have an understanding of oil analysis or have not had specialized training, they may be unable to detect errors or know that other tests can be used to analyze the oil. Remember, oil analysis is a powerful resource with diverse technologies and should evolve with your reli- ability program. Discovering the Value of a Reliability-centered Lubrication Program A reliability-centered program is focused on improving machine availability while ensuring that the equipment is working at full capacity. It is a combination of machine availability and productivity. is combina- tion reduces unnecessary maintenance and operational costs. A good example of the value that can be gained from a reliability-centered lubrication program recently occurred at a facility that manufactures construction materials. When a lubrication benchmark assessment was conducted about fi ve years ago, the results were poor, and there were many opportunities to implement better practices. Top management decided to support an improvement project. After three years, they requested a new bench- mark assessment. e results were much better. A lubrication technician then off ered his testi- mony. He explained that his job title of "lube tech" had remained the same, but his role had changed. ree years earlier, he would take a deep breath before entering the plant each day, as he prepared for the problems and stress that would be experienced that day, including oil changes, leaks, lubricating repaired or replaced machines, etc. ree years later, his job had changed signifi cantly. e level of stress had been reduced, and his duties were more related to checking and maintaining lubricant cleanli- ness, keeping the lube room in good condition, working on the scheduled lubrication and inspection plans, etc. Management also reported that it would be able to cut 20 percent of the total mechanical maintenance budget, which represented a competitive advantage in terms of operational costs. Creating Your Own Case Study How can you create a case study that demonstrates better results? Specific steps should be taken that follow a methodological approach. First, identify where your facility or fl eet is in terms of implementing best practices. A benchmark assessment can off er valuable information on the practices and controls for the entire lubricant cycle, which includes selection, reception and storage, handling and application, analysis and disposal. Both the assessment and goals of lubrica- tion excellence (see sidebar on page 34) can provide good ideas for where to start your case study. e improvement plan should include ML www . machinerylubrication.com | July - August 2019 | 35