Milling Journal - Q4 2008 - (Page 35) maintenance personnel typically gain lubrication experience through on-the-job training (OJT). The fact is, most mechanics never receive formal lubrication training and must rely solely on the information provided in OEM manuals. Lubricant Selection The OEM selects lubricants that provide adequate protection for its components and recommends oil change and lubrication intervals to maximize component lifecycles. Because OEMs list several “approved or recommended” lubricants, maintenance personnel tend to utilize whatever approved products are available in inventory. Additional lubricants–OEM-approved or otherwise—often are introduced into inventory, when stock levels have been depleted, resulting in inconsistent lubri cation practices. Vague OEM recommendations such as “two shots of grease every 100 operating hours” can lead to such questionable lu- various departments and levels of the company, working with the lubricant supplier. This team will develop a lubrication program that identifies realistic goals regarding maintenance, operation efficiencies, and production requirements. Program Elements Here are some key elements of a successful basic lubrication reliability program: • Develop an implementation plan, timetables, measurement tools, and task assignments. • Document equipment and application information including OEM recommendations. • Complete a lubrication audit for usage tracking. • Select the best lubricant for the application. • Implement a critical equipment identification and tracking program. • Use equipment temperature tracking programs to extend equipment life cycles. • Identify cost-reduction oppor- A basic lubrication reliability program starts with the selection of a competent lubricant supplier that provides not only a superior product but also specific application training unique to each situation. Alan Harding VP-Sales, Food Processing Hydrotex brication practices as grease gun output and personnel techniques that inevitably will vary in the absence of cohesive, reliable lubrication practices. So, the question remains: Is equipment being underlubricated, overlubricated, or adequately lubricated? A basic lubrication reliability program starts with the selection of a competent lubricant supplier that provides not only a superior product but also specific application training unique to each situation. Next, a lubrication reliability team is formed consisting of individuals from Response No. 351 MILLING JOURNAL Fourth Quarter 2008 35 http://www.dwyer-inst.com http://www.dwyer-inst.com
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