When changing or topping off an oil supply system using a filter cart, consider using quick couplers to ensure a clean exchange of fluid. Have a "dummy" connection on the cart to fasten the fill hose to when not in use, this will help keep the hose end coupling clean and prevent contamination. Ensure that the coupler on the machine also has a cover to prevent contamination. (Dick Kramek, Predictive Maintenance Supervisor, 3-D Service)

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From the book "The Practical Handbook of Machinery Lubrication"

A construction equipment contractor was experiencing premature turbocharger failures when certain engines were operated under full load conditions and used around the clock. Investigation through oil analysis and diagnosis of the failed components, revealed that the failures were caused by coking of the petroleum base oil within the turbocharger oil passages, thus restricting oil flow and resulting in bearing failure.

The initial cause of the oil coking condition was excessive temperatures within the turbocharger housing. A fully synthetic diesel engine oil was selected of the same viscosity as the original petroleum base mineral oil and installed. Premature turbocharger failures did not reoccur and oil temperatures dropped by about 8 degrees F.

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Question: Why do hydraulic fluids typically have lower viscosity than a gear oil?

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Today’s high performance lubricants are specifically formulated with a carefully selected balance of performance additives and base stocks to match the lubrication requirements of the equipment in which they are used. When lubricants are mixed, this balance is often upset. Mechanical problems leading to shorter equipment life can occur, sometimes catastrophically.

Modern lubricants are sophisticated products, formulated to meet the demanding lubrication requirements of modern equipment. The old saying, "oil is oil" no longer applies. Mixing lubricants is fraught with danger - to your equipment, to your business and to your wallet. Click to continue reading ...

FEBRUARY 2009

Machinery Lubrication I
17-19 Louisville, KY

Lubricación de Maquinaria – I
24-26 Guadalajara, Jal.

MARCH 2009

Oil Analysis I
3-5 Austin, TX

Machinery Lubrication II
3-5 Austin, TX

Lean Plant Reliability Advantage
10-11 Austin, TX

Análise de Óleo Proativa
11-13 São Paulo, Brazil

Control Efectivo de la Contaminación
24-26 México, D.F.

Tudo Sobre a Lubrificação de Máquinas
12-15 São Paulo, Brazil