Lubrication of bearings
22.03.2019

Managing the result of worn bearings in any machine constitutes a high component of all maintenance costs. Lubrication practices within a plant have a direct effect on equipment reliability. When a lubricant is working effectively in a machine – with no chemical degradation and with limited contamination within it, wear will be reduced and equipment reliability will be improved. The key to achieving a reduction in component wear and an increase in equipment reliability, is an effective and clean average lubrication film thickness – or in order words protecting and maintaining a good lubrication viscosity.
Alarming is the fact that over 60% of the damages of bearings are lubrication related. Bearings and other rotating components need a good lube film thickness to separate the metal components and reduce wear. However, the grease used should be of high quality, not contaminated, effectively replenished and mixing of lubes should be avoided.
Viscosity changes are the result of oil degradation, contamination, or both. Oxidation is one of the main causes of a viscosity change, as it will cause an increase of viscosity initially and as the oxidation increases the viscosity will then begin to decrease to a dangerous level. Here is what we must do to maintain a good operating lubrication Viscosity:
1. The lubricant film is what ensures the separation of metal surfaces, thereby preventing wear and reducing friction.
2. When the oil is contaminated with hard particles greater in diameter than the average lube film thickness, then three part abrasive wear will occur, also leading to wear and increases in friction.
3. Chemical changes to the lubricant will also affect the viscosity of the lubricant.
4. We should have processes in place to ensure a low level of contamination is present in the operating lubricant.
5. We should have processes in place to know when chemical changes are happening to a lubricant in operation.
Lubrication practices within a plant have a direct effect on plant and equipment reliability. When the lubrication is working effectively, wear will be reduced and equipment reliability will be improved.