test 4
Selection of Lubricants
Correct selection of lubricant is essential for the maintaining the long life of machinery/ engine or the equipment. Selection of lubricant is based on the application, service temperature range, speed factor, extreme pressure conditions, acceptable relubrication intervals, cost which indirectly depends on the lubricant specification or technical data. This defines the lubricant’s general function or purpose as well as the material type. It also describes specific applications for which it is required.
To determine which type of lubricant is best for an application, one must understand the current situation. Look at application/environmental factors such as speed, temperature, load, vibration, moisture, and dust. Consider that:
• Temperature determines lubricant base oil type
• Speed determines viscosity required (at operating temperature)
• Load, vibration, and moisture determine the additive package
There are three (3) classifications of a lubricant:
1. Fluid (Liquid)
2. Semi-Solid (Grease)
3. Solids (Dry)
Role of physiochemical properties and compatibility of lubricants in lubricant selection
For any application, it is essential to understand lubricants physical, chemical and performance properties in bench or rig tests as well as compatibility of the lubricant product’s with other lubricants as well as with synthetic materials existing in machine lubrication systems, such as seals and gaskets. Compatibility may have added importance when the standard refers to synthetic lubricants or special formulas, since they may require specific procedures when switching to other lubricants. For example, this product is manufactured with polyalkylene glycol (polyglycol) base stock, which is not compatible with mineral oils and other synthetics such as polyalphaolephins.
Role of Product Approval in lubricant selection
Some machines or equipment’s may require lubricant approvals or endorsements in which the lubricant product is intended to be used. These approvals may come from original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) or other industry organizations, such as the American Gear Manufacturers Association (AGMA), the National Lubricating Grease Institute (NLGI), etc. Please note that some lubricants may claim a certification or approval for certain technical standards or OEM specifications, while others may only “comply with” the standard or requirement but are not necessarily approved or certified. This may be particularly significant when complying with equipment warranty requirements.
Potential Restrictions and Hazards needs to be taken care during lubricant Selection
Potential restrictions and hazards describes any undesired ingredients or product properties as well as toxicological or safety aspects to be considered when buying or handling the lubricant. For example, the product must not have mutagenic or carcinogenic compounds.
Lubricants
