Efficient Plant Jan./Feb. 2021 - 24

lubricants

MOISTURE

Protect Assets from
Extreme Conditions
THOUGH WINTER IS the current focus, extreme environmental conditions occur throughout the year. Maintaining machinery so it can operate
properly when exposed to harsh environments is critical. Here are some
factors to consider when the weather gets extreme.

Whether it's rain, snow, or sleet, rust can result, and preventing
and/or removing it is an important maintenance function. Rust
and corrosion can cause costly downtime or the need to replace
critical and expensive equipment. Invest in long-lasting lubricants/
coatings that protect metal parts by blocking rust and corrosion. If
corrosion is present, choose a rust penetrant that can travel deep
into crevices, threads, and seams to break the bonds that hold parts
together. A good penetrant will also leave behind a protective layer
that prevents future rust.

EXTREME TEMPERATURES

If equipment is exposed to extreme heat or cold, everyday lubricants may fail. Instead, use a silicone lubricant that will withstand
extreme temperatures. Silicone lubricants can also waterproof and
protect surfaces from rust to reduce unplanned downtime and
increase time between maintenance intervals. If you need to
lubricate high-speed bearings or heavy-duty equipment, select a
high-temperature grease with a drop point of 625 F.

DRY CONDITIONS

In a dry climate, your lubricant may have a short shelf life. To
reduce the labor and time required for frequent reapplication,
select a thick gel lubricant that will provide longer-lasting lubrication. Since a gel lubricant goes on thick, it will stay where it's
applied, making it ideal for use on vertical surfaces. A silicone
lubricant can also be used in dry temperatures to prevent hoses,
gaskets, and other rubber parts from drying out and cracking.

EXCESSIVE DUST

Dust, dirt, and/or sand can cause equipment issues. Unfortunately,
some lubricants, required to keep equipment moving, can also
attract those contaminants. A dry lubricant will prevent buildup and
keep your equipment running smoothly. Dry lubricants are best
used where cleanliness and maximum performance are required as
they dry quickly, leaving behind a lubricating film that resists dirt,
dust, and oil buildup. Dry lubricants are also good for reducing
friction and wear on blades and bits, slides, conveyor belts, rollers,
hinges, and power tools.

Assets that must operate in extreme weather conditions often require specialized
lubricant products.

Learn how WD-40 Brand, San Diego (wd40.com), products can reduce unplanned
downtime and increase time between maintenance intervals by downloading a
facility-maintenance guide at wd40.com/industrialsolutions/.

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EP2101rmcwd40.indd 24

HUMIDITY

Humid weather can cause numerous problems, especially for
electrical equipment. A good electrical contact cleaner will blast
away oil and dirt and help remove condensation from sensitive
electronics and electrical equipment. Make sure the contact cleaner
you select is safe for use on a variety of electrical components,
including printed-circuit boards, controls, battery terminals,
switches, precision instruments, and electric panels. Also, look for
one that dries quickly so dirt and dust cannot accumulate. EP

JAN/FEB 2021

1/26/21 1:29 PM

http://www.wd40.com http://www.wd40.com/industrialsolutions/ http://www.EFFICIENTPLANTMAG.COM

Efficient Plant Jan./Feb. 2021

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