Selecting A Lubricant
Why should I care about selecting a lubricant?
A good quality lubricant in the right place will not only improve the operation of equipment, but also extend its life for many years. All mechanical equipment is expensive to replace. It is also true that "down time" can cost the owner hundreds of dollars per hour. There is a quotation that says, "Lubricant does not cost - it pays". The best lubricants properly applied are the most economical in the long run.
It follows that care must be taken in the selection of the correct lubricant. Whether one operates an automobile, stripping shovel, hydraulic dredge, automatic screw machine, or conveyor, the manufacturer has provided an "Operator's Manual". There will be a section in it devoted to "Lubrication".
What factors should I consider when selecting a lubricant?
Some of the factors which must be considered are:- The viscosity of oil or penetration of grease is significant. A rule of thumb is to use light oils or semi-fluid grease when high speeds are encountered, while slow speeds require comparatively heavier lubricants.
- When the operating temperatures are high, the stability of the oil or grease becomes an important consideration.
- When extreme pressure conditions exist, a straight mineral oil does not do the job, and a lubricant containing extreme pressure additives is required.
- In the presence of moisture, a straight mineral oil fails because it does not displace moisture on the frictional surface; rusting and corrosion may result. There are specific lubricants to combat these conditions.
- Internal combustion engines, both gasoline and diesel, form carbon deposits in their operation. Unless they are removed and held in suspension by the engine oil, faulty operation and wear results. Today's top quality modern motor oils and diesel oils are more than capable of keeping "high output" engines in tip-top shape.
- Operation of equipment under low or cold temperatures also has a bearing on the selection of the right oil or grease. Certain oils and greases congeal at low temperatures and thereby fail to lubricate well.