It is well-known that one of the most important aspects of operating any machinery efficiently is lubrication. In order to keep things running smoothly and safely, making sure that all moving parts are well-oiled is a must, especially when working conditions are very specific. In order to ensure this, it’s important to also know the exact specifications about what kind of lubricant you will need, before you buy it. Here are some useful tips to help you identify precisely what you require, to make the purchasing process easy and free of confusion.
How to identify what you need
There are a few parameters that are important to keep in mind; making a checklist or noting down these details will speed up the process of selection of lubricants significantly, especially if you are a beginner in the matter.
First, of course, is the intended application- what kind of machinery or parts is the lubrication going to be for? This is essential as not all lubricants are compatible with all kinds of equipment. For example, the same kind of lubricant that is used for bearings cannot be used for pumps or compressors.
Another thing to keep in mind is the operating conditions in which this machinery is used, whether it is outside in places exposed to dust and dirt, indoors in high or cold temperatures, portable or fixed, etc. This also includes the temperature of the environment, which decides the nature of the lubricant. Oils evaporate in higher temperatures, and can harden in lower ones. In fact, this is also a factor that affects the viscosity of the lubricant of choice.
Though it may not seem obvious, the sector of activity in which the lubricant is to be used is important. This holds true especially for any food and beverage production, are required by consumer safety laws to use oils and greases that are non-toxic, given the possibility of accidental contact between lubricant and product.
What kind of lubricant should I use?
Lubricants are categorized into oils, greases, and pastes; and each is suited to different applications and operating conditions.
Oils come in various types and each one serves a specific function. For example, automotive oils prevent wear on moving parts. Cutting oils protect tools from both wear and overheating. However, the lubricating efficiency of oils reduces significantly at very high or very low temperatures. When selecting an oil, it’s important to consider the manufacturer’s recommended temperature range (outlined in the product’s technical specifications). Synthetic oils, in particular, are designed for extreme temperatures and retain their lubricating properties regardless of the conditions.
Greases also provide smoothness in moving parts, dissipate heat, and shield against damage or wear. They are particularly well-suited for high-temperature applications due to their heat resistance, and they can handle both high speeds and heavy loads effectively.
Pastes work best for high-temperature environments, remaining effective at temperatures exceeding 300°C, where oils typically evaporate. They are also ideal for low-speed bearings, and applications that involve high loads. Additionally, pastes are suitable for straightforward lubrication tasks, such as in assembly work.
Each lubricant type offers distinct advantages, so choosing the right one depends on the specific requirements of your application.
