Do You Know The Most Common Lubricant-Related Failures?
Lubricant-related equipment failures come in all shapes and sizes. Here we will examine the common lubricant problems that often lead to premature failure.
Insufficient Lubrication
Proper lubrication is defined as the proper amount of the proper lubricant at the proper place. If oil levels are low, or the lubricant delivery system is inadequate, a proper oil film cannot be maintained at the friction surface. This results in metal-to-metal contact and accelerated wear. Sufficient lubrication can only be achieved when oil levels are correct, and the appropriate lube system is in place and functioning properly.
Lubricant Degradation
Nature takes its toll on all of us, and lubricants are no exception. Oxidation breaks down the base oil of a lubricant, additives are depleted, and physical properties change over time. This process is accelerated by high temperatures, heavy loading, and contamination. When a lubricant reaches the end of its useful life, it is no longer capable of protecting equipment components. Steps must be taken to ensure healthy lubricant is in use at all times.
Contamination
Contaminated lubricants account for nearly half of all lubricant-related failures. Lubricants can become contaminated with either solid or fluid contaminants. Solid contaminants can act as abrasives causing severe damage to components. Solids can also clog filters and orifices restricting oil flow and resulting in lubricant starvation. Fluid contaminants such as water will alter the load handling ability of an oil, and can act as a catalyst to lubricant degradation. Many fluids also cause internal corrosion and rust. Proper filtration must be maintained, and sources of potential contamination should be identified and controlled to ensure the cleanest lubricant possible.
Incorrect Lubricant Selection
When selecting a lubricant for a given application, both equipment specifications and operating perimeters should be taken into account. Most importantly, the proper grade (viscosity) lubricant must be chosen. Secondly, the lubricant should have the proper additive package. Other considerations include the type of base oil, demusibility, and extreme temperature characteristics. Once the proper lube is selected, procedures should be put in place to ensure the selected lubricant is applied at the proper intervals.
Although the lubricants may be deemed equivalent or comparable, that does not mean they are compatible. Contact TestOil about our Lubricant Compatibility Analysis if you are considering a change in lubricants.
