Industrial Lubricants FAQs: Your Frequently Asked Questions
Industrial lubricants play a vital role in all industries utilising mechanical components and machinery. As a result, they have gained a permanent place in the toolkit of manufacturers and maintenance operators across every industry. Here we answer the most requested and frequently asked questions regarding industrial lubricants and our portfolio of lubrication products. Explore our Industrial Lubricants FAQs here:
What is the role and function of an industrial lubricant?
Industrial lubricants reduce the friction, heat, and wear between mechanical components in contact with each other. They provide a protective layer between surfaces to prevent damage and optimise performance. High-quality and specialised lubricants — such as those found within our lubricants portfolio — possess many unique, application-specific, and high-performance qualities designed for a multitude of industrial challenges. The role and function of a lubricant can be vastly disparate depending upon the application and purpose. To find the perfect lubrication solution for your industrial application, speak to our experts today.
What are the signs of a failing lubricant?
Lubricants may start to deteriorate or fail depending on their method of application or external factors. The signs of a failing or deteriorating lubricant range from:
- Lubricant leaks
- Changes in lubricant odour
- Oil separation
- Lubricant contamination
- Excess noise, vibrations, or rattles due to friction
- Changes in lubricant consistency and texture
- Changes in lubricant colour
How long can industrial lubricants be used?
The service life of an industrial lubricant defines the length of time that it can be used when under its intended operation. Typically, the service life of a lubricant is mentioned in its technical data sheet. It’s important to only use lubricants for their specified service life, as it could otherwise lead their functional properties to deteriorate, posing quality and safety risks. Some lubricants provide “life-long lubrication” for certain applications. This means that the application will not need re-lubrication before it reaches the end of its lifecycle.
How should industrial lubricants be stored?
The ideal storage conditions and timeline of industrial lubricants are mentioned within the product’s technical data sheet, as relevant to that lubricant. Typically, industrial lubricants should be stored in their original, sealed containers at temperatures outside their decomposition temperature range. If lubricants are not stored properly, their functional properties may deteriorate or they may become contaminated.
What information can I get from an oil analysis report?
Performing an oil analysis can help detect wear, debris, contamination, oxidation, and additive depletion, providing insights into your equipment’s condition and the effectiveness/performance of your chosen lubricant. Performing oil analysis helps optimise maintenance and avoid unexpected failures.
What precautions should I take when handling industrial lubricants?
It’s advisable to avoid skin contact and inhalation of lubricant mists or vapours. Wearing proactive gloves and working in a well-ventilated area is likewise recommended. Always dispose of used lubricants properly according to environmental regulations. For specific safety considerations and advice of handling an individual lubricant, refer to the product’s safety data sheet.
Can different industrial lubricants be mixed in the same application?
Mixing different lubricants can be problematic provided that the lubricants are incompatible with each other. Incompatibility is commonplace amongst lubricants of differing chemistry types, manufacturers, or those intended for different purposes and applications. In the case of incompatible mixing, the consistency of the lubricants may change, causing separation, leaks and ultimately premature equipment failure. However, for those lubricants that can be mixed with others, information regarding mixing can be typically found within the product’s technical data sheet.
Are the food-grade lubricants available?
Yes, within the Antala portfolio of specialist industrial lubricants, you’ll find a range of lubrication products specifically formulated for food-contact and food processing equipment. These food-safe certified products meet requirements and legislation and minimise the risk of food contamination. For more information regarding food-safe lubricants, visit our “lubricants for the food and beverage industry” page, here.
What is the best way to dispose of industrial lubricants?
Industrial lubricants should be disposed of through an oil-disposal service or recycling bank. Always dispose of industrial lubricants in the proper manner, and never dispose of industrial lubricants using a standard drain or sink as this can pollute the environment.
How do industrial lubricants clean themselves of contaminants?
Industrial lubricants can keep themselves clean of contaminants by containing ingredients that don’t break down into contaminants nor contribute to the friction and wear that creates contaminants. It’s essential that contaminants are kept away from lubricants as they can contribute to extra wear, deteriorate lubricant properties and lead to unexpected equipment breakdowns.
Read our full guide on avoiding lubricant contamination to learn more about this topic.
Here at Antala, we offer a wide range of industrial lubricants for use across virtually every sector and application. Reduce maintenance intervals, improve operational efficiency and prevent early breakdowns by investing in them today. Reach out to one of our technical experts to get in-depth advice about your lubrication applications.
