Machinery Lubrication magazine published by Noria Corporation
Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1316458
30 | November - December 2020 | www . machinerylubrication.com ENERGY CONSERVATION, HEALTH & ENVIRONMENT would include attributes such as toxicity, microbial growth, combus- tibility, biodegradability and high temperature, among others. e greater the negative effect, the greater the consequence. e probability is determined based the likelihood of lubricant exposure. If the combination of the consequence and probability are high, the overall risk to people or the environment could be high. Additionally, the lubrication system itself should be considered directly as a possible safety risk (also discussed in the Reception & Storage Stage). Such is the case on lubrication systems with pressurized fluids, electrical energy, mechanical energy, etc. erefore, careful selection of either the lubricant with less nega- tive effects or a lubrication system that is more effective at minimizing these negative impacts is key. Addressing the Energy Conservation, Health & the Environment factor should be foundational to a lubri- cation program, hence why it is part of the Platform level. Storage & Disposal of Used Oil & Materials As lubricants degrade, they are disposed of unless they are deemed suitable for reconditioning (overviewed in the Contamination Control and Reconditioning Stage). Typically, after a drain or purge of used lubricant from a machine, the used lubricant should be brought to a well-labeled storage container until it is removed offsite by an appro- priate contractor. Other materials, such as filters and rags, may also be contaminated with this used lubricant and should also be handled similarly and appropriately. Just like any other lubricant and storage practices, there are various risks that could be associated with used lubricants and a range of actions needed to minimize the risks. Having careful steps and procedures for these activities is important. In addition to these considerations as general guidelines, many organizations have policies and rules that must be followed. Outside of those, there are local and even federal laws and regulations regarding the handling and storage of these used lubricants to consider. is could include regulatory bodies such as the EPA, OSHA, MSHA and others. Management Level Leakage Management One of the silent killers at a plant is the quiet, steady leak of oil from a machine. Such leaks can often go unnoticed, uncorrected and often result in lubricant starvation. is is why daily inspections on lubricated components and installing quality, easily inspected sight glasses are so important. Some equipment, if critical enough, may even require built-in level monitors that provide real-time feedback if a leak occurs. Nevertheless, when leaks do occur, having procedures to handle oil leaks is important to minimize the risk to people, the risk to the environment and unnecessary costs. Large or small, leaks can become costly fast. Here are some costs associated to a leak: • e cost of new oil added to the machine (plus expedited fees and delivery charges)