2018 Lubrication Guide

The science and art of lubrication often is as important as the mechanical functions it enables.

By Bob Vavra, CFE Media June 18, 2018
The science and art of lubrication often is as important as the mechanical functions it enables. If one oil or grease worked in all applications, in all temperatures and environments, and on all equipment, this would be a simpler world. The laws of physics aren’t that simple.
So we turn to researchers and engineers to continue to find new ways to keep the wheels turning and to limit friction and wear. Their work continues, as new metals and alloys are developed and new synthetic products are created. The products they develop will keep our plants operating effectively and efficiently.
Sponsored by Lubriplate, Plant Engineering’s annual Lubrication Guide provides a comprehensive look at those products and how they can be employed in your facilities. We also have a detailed look at oil analysis from our content partners at the Society of Tribologists and Lubrication Engineers (STLE). Their assistance in developing the content for this year’s Lubrication Guide was invaluable.  
As we take a look at lubrication as both an art and a science, we also need to look deeper. The cost of effective lubrication can’t be measured on a balance sheet. Effective lubrication management begins with finding the right product for the job, but it also requires better lubrication management throughout the product lifecycle. Measuring and managing lubrication can extend the life of both the oil or grease as well as the machine it serves. 
Establishing an oil analysis program is the best way to ensure you can improve equipment reliability and save costly breakdowns. Lubrication isn’t a product, as we demonstrate again this year. It is an investment, every bit as important as the machine it works with. 
Bob Vavra, content manger, Plant Engineering, bvavra@cfemedia.com.

Original content can be found at Oil and Gas Engineering.