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January - February 2015
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www.machinerylubrication.com
M a i n t e n a n c e a n d R e l i a b i l i t y
he ultimate goal of lubrication excellence is to increase
machine reliability and reduce operating costs. To
achieve this objective, changes must be made at different
levels of the plant, including the technology and hardware that
are currently in use.
Machines may require modifi cations for a variety of reasons, such
as to improve the accuracy of lubrication procedures, to enable
inspections of the in-service oil and the machinery, to ensure precise
oil analysis and consistent oil sampling, and to enhance the effective-
ness of the contamination control
program. Following is an overview of
these types of modifi cations.
Lubrication Procedures
It is critical that machines receive the right lubricant in the right
amount at the right frequency. It is also essential that they are
lubricated using clean, ergonomic and safe procedures. To ensure
proper lubrication practices, machines must have the appropriate
accessories installed. This typically involves lubricant-delivery
devices like constant-level oilers, single-point lubricators, grease
fi ttings, grease purge valves, centralized lube systems, spray
systems, etc. Temperature-management systems, including heaters
and coolers, may also be needed, along with rolling-element
bearing seals and shields, and power-fl ush quick-connects on
reservoirs and sumps.
Inspections
Oil analysis that is supported by visual inspections of the
in-service oil offers a powerful way to monitor the condition of
the oil and the machine. Simple visual inspections can confi rm
that the oil is in good condition or indicate the presence of
contaminants or excessive degradation. Among the devices that
Machine MODIFICATIONS
That INCREASE
Reliability
T
PERSPECTIVE
A L E JA NDRO ME Z A
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NORI A CORPOR AT ION
Two sight-glass options
