When equipping a gear reducer with best practices hardware upgrades, I like to make sure to install a ball valve between the male hydraulic quick-connect coupling and the bottom of the sump. That way, if the coupling develops a leak or needs to be replaced, it can be valved off and performed on the run without any major fluid loss. (Bob Robertson, Lube Technician, Cargill)

Join us in Branson, Missouri for Machinery Lubrication Level I training on June 5-7.

From the book "Lubrication Fundamentals":

Solid particles of any kind that are trapped between the rolling elements and raceways are the most frequent cause of shortened bearing life. Consequently, dirt should be kept out of bearings as much as possible, and lubricants should be changed before oxidation has progressed to the point where deposits begin to form. The use of oxidation-inhibited lubricants can greatly extend the period of time that lubricants may be left in service without excessive oxidation.

More information about "Lubrication Fundamentals"

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

Question: What is the difference between extreme pressure and antiscuff additives?

Get the answer.

"I have a small sump which needs flushing. Should I use the same lube oil as used in the equipment, diesel fuel or a cleaning solvent?"

There is no mention of the type of deposit that you are trying to remove, so I must be a bit general in my answer.

The oil product that is the lube oil for the equipment will likely be the poorest cleaning agent but will not present you with any compatibility/cross-contamination issues. A better option is that some oil companies offer a mineral oil-based flushing oil.

Diesel fuel is a hydrocarbon that will completely mix with the mineral oil lube in use. It may be a better cleaning agent than the lube oil and will not have any compatibility issues.The only issue is that any residual diesel fuel left in the sump after the flush will dilute and lower the viscosity of the new charge of lube oil.

The chemical cleaning solution or agent is likely the best cleaning option, but you must be sure to get all of the cleaning solution out of the sump. This may require a fill and drain (flush) with the new lube oil to be used, then a final fill with the new lube oil to be used in the operating equipment. Any remaining cleaning solution may cause issues with emulsification of water or foaming and aeration. Also, make sure that the chemical solution is compatible with any seals and paints in the sump. Temperature and flow rates also affect flushing effectiveness.

Bob Scott, Noria Corporation

Submit a question | Discuss on Message Boards