Machinery Lubrication magazine published by Noria Corporation
Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1189076
current practices compared to best practices along with the goals. A financial assessment may be included to offer a better idea of the gains the organization is seeking. is type of assessment reports the current situation with a holistic perspective while making it clear that a lubrication program involves multiple organizational levels. Success will depend on the combined work of the team or depart- ment involved in the financial decisions and operations, as well as the execution of the maintenance and reliability programs. e chosen team, which is formed from different levels of the organization, should establish the plan, goals and milestones, and allocate resources. ey should know that at times many initiatives will be happening at the same time and that unexpected situations may arise, but they must focus on the goal and understand its relevance. e second step consists of defining the technical parameters to be followed, such as designing a program for lubricant selection, preventing lubricant contamina- tion, selecting training programs for team members, creating new procedures, identi- fying key performance indicators (KPIs), and establishing a rewards program. Key connections may be made across the program. For example, machine modifications can help improve visual inspections and conse- quently contamination control and lubrication practices. Better oil sampling procedures may enhance the quality of oil analysis and machine condition diagnosis. Machine modi- fications may be supported by better written procedures and training, which also contribute to improved team performance, increased machine reliability and a reduced failure rate. e next step is to implement everything that has been carefully planned and designed. is includes installing machine modifica- tions, improving lubricant management across the facility, providing the necessary training, employing and reporting KPIs to observe improvements in machine reliability, etc. One element that should not be overlooked is defining a specific mechanism for managing change in the organization. is will help to ensure everyone involved in the program contributes to sustainable changes. Periodic reviews can show the progress of the initiative. e results may be expressed in ML www . machinerylubrication.com | November - December 2019 | 37 CURRENT STATE LUBRICATION EXCELLENCE This illustration depicts the different paths of a long-term (blue line) and short-term (orange line) approach to achieving lubrication excellence. different ways, such as a reduction in oper- ational costs, fewer unexpected shutdowns, lower component/machine replacement rates, decreased labor costs, optimized lubricant purchases and stock control. As long as the project continues, more involvement by the team should be expected along with greater satisfaction from the work. Successful implemen- tation of best practices will consider the tech- nological, organizational and human factors related to the project. ese prin- ciples apply not only to lubrication programs but also to other maintenance strategies as well. This type of approach demands top management support, allocation of resources, tea mwork, focus a nd persistence. While it may take several months or longer, eventua lly the rewards will come. Long-Term Improvement Although the short- term approach sounds great, some plants may not have the necessary resources available. In t he se sit u at ions, t he reliabilit y/ma intena nce group might choose a different strategy, one that isn't as demanding on resources but still feasible for implementing best or better practices. This would involve allocating fewer resources in terms of time, labor and money, and would not require much support from upper management. Described as a U.K Manufacturers and Worldwide Sellers of Cellulose Depth Filtration Systems to achieve the highest levels of particulate and moisture removal EVERY INDUSTRY NEEDS KLEENOIL AS THE ULTIMATE SOLUTION IN ACHIEVING CLEAN OILS AND AFFORDABLE PROACTIVE MAINTENANCE Your machines will last longer with significantly less downtime Benefit from up to 10 times lower oil consumption and support our planet KLEENOIL is available worldwide www.kleenoil.co.uk UK (44) 0 1 977 682810