October 27, 2004
Sent to 35,752 worldwide

1. Magnet Skews Oil Analysis Results

2. Can Greases Be Mixed?

3. Why Use Higher Viscosity Hydraulic Fluids?

4. Troubleshooting with Oil Filter Analysis

Today's Tip: Magnet Skews Oil Analysis Results

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101 Smart Lubrication Tips from Molykote®.

At Molykote we understand the growing pressures on today's maintenance professional. That's why our experts have developed this handy guide for you. This COMPLIMENTARY download addresses a number of common lubrication problems - providing quick at-a-glance solutions that you can reference while you're on the move. Don't miss out - download 101 Smart Lubrication Tips now!


Book Bits: Can Greases Be Mixed?


From "Lubrication Fundamentals"

Greases are available with many thickener types, additives, and base oils. As a result, mixing of different greases could result in altering performance or physical properties (incompatibility), which could lead to a grease (mixture) that exhibits characteristics inferior to those of either grease before mixing. The mixing of incompatible greases will alter properties such as consistency, pumpability, shear stability, oil separation, and oxidation stability. Generally, when two incompatible greases are mixed, the result is a softening, which can lead to increased leakage as well as loss of other performance features.

Equipment performance problems as a result of mixing incompatible greases could manifest themselves after a relatively short period of operation but usually occur over longer time periods, sometimes making it difficult to trace the source of the problem back to mixing of incompatible greases. When it becomes necessary to use different greases, it is best to mix greases of the same thickener type, but in all cases compatibility charts and the grease suppliers should be consulted. However, the safest practice is to avoid mixing of greases.

More information about the book "Lubrication Fundamentals"

 

Contamination control for mobile equipment.

The new Des-Case® Disposable Steel Breather is the ideal desiccant breather for mobile equipment. With 1-micron filtration and a rugged metal housing, the DC-DS breather is durable, resistant to vibration, and can withstand high temperatures.

The unit is available with several adapter options, including a proprietary design feature for extreme humidity and high outflow applications, which creates a virtually sealed system.

By prohibiting entry of dirt and moisture, mobile equipment operators can attain significant cost reductions. Not only from extended oil drain intervals, but through prevention of premature component failure and by limiting rebuilds.

www.des-case.com/DCDS_tech.pdf

E-mail: breathe@des-case.com


Lube Trivia: Why Use Higher Viscosity Hydraulic Fluids?

Test your knowledge and prepare for ICML lubrication and oil analysis certification.

QUESTION: What are the advantages of higher viscosity hydraulic fluid? What are some of the disadvantages?

Get the answer.

 

Q & A: Troubleshooting with Oil Filter Analysis


"Recently I've read that it's possible to analyze used oil filters for troubleshooting. Do you recommend this?"


Used oil filter analysis may provide your best evidence of machine degradation, tracing a history of machine particles created and contaminants ingested over a period of time.

Filters are often discarded when changed, or not analyzed as a part of a root cause failure investigation. This disregards a potentially powerful analysis tool. Ask your used oil analysis lab to perform a filter analysis for you. The filter is sectioned and the particles contained within are liberated into a solvent with mechanical and/or ultrasonic agitation for analysis. Typical tests include ferrography and elemental analysis.

This could unlock the key to your equipment reliability problems.

Adam Davis, Noria Corporation

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Lube-Tips is published weekly by:
Noria Corporation, 1328 E. 43rd Court, Tulsa, OK 74105 USA. (918) 749-1400

Because results will vary widely based on a number of factors, Noria Corporation cannot warrant the results of any material within this e-mail.

© 1998-2004 Noria Corporation

 

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