Case Study: Turnkey Paper Mill Lubrication System
October 18, 2023
Best Clean Lubricant Storage Practices in Industrial Settings
Proper lubricant storage is vital for maintaining the performance, efficiency, and longevity of industrial equipment. Contaminated or improperly stored lubricants can lead to machine breakdowns, high maintenance costs, and safety hazards. This blog post outlines essential best practices for clean lubricant storage to ensuring ideal machine functionality and workplace safety.
Suitable Storage Containers
Select the right storage containers made of materials compatible with stored lubricants. Depending on the type of lubricant and its chemical composition, choose a compatible metal, plastic, or glass container. Be sure the containers are clean, dry, and residue-free before transferring lubricant into them.
Labeling and Identification
Be sure to correctly label each storage container. Include lubricant type, manufacturer, batch number, date of receipt, and expiration date. Clear labeling prevents mix-up, aids in tracking inventory, enables timely usage and signals when to dispose of the lubricant.
Temperature Control
Always, store lubricants in a controlled environment. Consistent temperature conditions are important as extreme temperature fluctuations and degrade the quality of the lubricant. If possible, implement a climate-controlled storage area or use insulated cabinets to handle any temperature-related issues.
Avoiding Contamination
Store lubricant types separately to prevent cross-contamination. Prevent mixing by using dedicated containers, pumps, and dispensing equipment for each lubricant. Also, you must have a clean workspace. Establishing clear and strict procedures will help to avoid introducing dirt, dust or moisture during lubricant handling.
Seal Integrity
Prevent air, moisture, and foreign particles with the use of proper container sealing. Leaking or damaged containers will degrade lubricant quality, so regularly inspect containers for signs of deterioration. Be sure to replace damaged seals or containers as quickly as possible.
First In, First Out (FIFO) Approach
Adopt a FIFO inventory management system. This will ensure that older lubricants get used first. Therefore, lubricants won’t be sitting in storage for long periods of time and they will not degrade.
Adequate Ventilation
Provide proper ventilation in lubricant storage areas. It is vital to minimize fumes and vapors. Adequate airflow prevents the buildup of volatile compounds and helps maintain a safe working environment for personnel.
Clean Transfer and Handling
Use clean and dedicated equipment to avoid contamination when dispensing lubricants. Use a drip tray or spill system to prevent accidents during lubricant transfers. Proper handling procedures also reduce the risk of introducing contaminants into the lubricant.
Regular Inspections
Set up regular checks to see how the lubricant containers, seals, and storage places are holding up. Look for signs of corrosion, leaks, or pollution. Deal with any problems right away to keep them from getting worse.
Training and Education
Make sure that the people who store, handle, and dispense lube get the right training. To encourage responsible lubricant management, teach your workers how to store lubricant in a clean way, keep it from getting contaminated, and follow safety rules.
Conclusion
Lubricant storage practices are essential for maintaining equipment reliability and productivity. By following these best practices, companies can ensure clean lubricant storage, minimize contamination risks, and extend the lifespan of machinery. Proper storage protocols contribute to cost savings, enhanced safety, and improved operational efficiency.
The Motion Repair & Services team is ready to provide you with full turnkey lubrication system packages for stationary and mobile applications as well as the storage, dispensing, and maintenance of bulk lubricants. To learn more about our team's capabilities, head to our website.
