As the temperature of a gear oil increases, its ability to support a load decreases. This is due to the thinning effect that temperature has on the viscosity. The rate of change differs for each oil. The rate of change is expressed in an oil's Viscosity Index (VI) number. The higher the VI number, the lower the rate of change.

If you have a gearbox running at high-temperatures that seems to have a low reliability rating, check to see if the oil has a suitable VI, and is capable of holding up under the high temperatures. If the product's VI is less than 120, as shown on the product data sheet, then consider an alternative oil for the high-temperature, heavily loaded application.

Join Noria's Jim Fitch for Oil Analysis Level I training in Atlanta, Georgia on November 10-12.

From "The Practical Handbook of Machinery Lubrication"

Since synthetic oils get contaminated with wear metals, carbon soot, combustion residue, and by-products of fuels, such as acids and sulfur compounds, in much the same way as petroleum base oils, it may be unreasonable to expect synthetic oils to last longer than petroleum base lubricants.

Oil levels must be checked periodically, filters serviced or replaced on a regular basis and above all, oil samples should be taken regularly and sent to a competent used oil analysis laboratory for analysis.

Read more about "The Practical Handbook of Machinery Lubrication"

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How do you know if you're using the right hydraulic oil? In this article, learn how to work smart when determining the right hydraulic fluid for your application.
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• Lean training workshops this fall from Productivity Inc

• Active Dry Air Venting for Water Contamination Control

• Wireless Temperature Sensors for Rotating Equipment Applications

NOVEMBER 2009

Oil Analysis I
3-5 Montreal, Quebec
10-12 Atlanta, GA

Análisis de Aceite – II
10-12 México, D.F.

Oil Analysis
16-19 Ortigas Center, Pasig City

Mastering Machinery Lubrication
2-3 Perth, WA
5-9 Karratha, WA
23-24 Latrobe Valley, VIC

Análise de Óleo Preditiva
18-20 São Paulo, Brazil

Machinery Lubrication I
24-26 Montreal Quebec

Oil Analysis I and II
24-27 Bangkok

Lubricación de Equipo Móvil
25-26 Madrid