Most of us are already aware that bearing failure is the leading cause of equipment malfunction in any industrial setting. Do you know what usually causes that bearing failure? Many times, the culprit is simply contamination. It’s a problem that LH Travis has seen innumerable times over the years. Therefore, we’ve compiled a few tips to help you avoid lubricant contamination in your machinery.
Preventing Particulate Contamination
The state of your oil has a huge impact on the condition of the bearings. While it’s possible for oil to become contaminated in some way on its way from the refinery to your jobsite, it doesn’t happen very often. However, the manner in which that oil is then stored once it reaches you can affect its purity.
LH Travis recommends storing oil drums or other oil containers indoors if at all possible. Outdoor storage can be rough on oil containers, since weathering can cause metal drums to rust and deteriorate, thereby making it quite easy for contaminants to make their way into the lubricant.
If you must store drums outside, keep them as dry as possible. Don’t let water sit on any part of an oil container. Check the bungs and the seams of the container frequently to ensure that everything is tightly sealed. Temperature changes will cause the metal to expand and contract, which can then lead to leaks or contamination.
Dirt and water are the most common contaminants that get into oil, and their intrusion can be minimized by storing outdoor drums on their sides, preferably on a specially made rack. The bungs should be in the three o’clock and nine o’clock positions so that the drum contents are above the bung level.
Fluid Handling Is Easy With LH Travis
For more information on what you can do to manage your lubricants wisely, just reach out to LH Travis. We can provide you with tips and make product recommendations to ensure that the oil you put into your equipment is always in top quality condition.
