Lubrication Best Practices-What are they?
- davidc664
- Sep 21
- 2 min read
Most of our customers want to have a really good lubrication program and most try but aren't really sure where to start or what to do next. We've broken it down into some simple to apply steps below.
Core Principles of Lubrication Best Practices
1. Right Lubricant
Match the correct lubricant type and grade to each machine/component.
Consider viscosity, temperature range, load, and OEM or your ISL representatives guidance.
Avoid mixing incompatible oils/greases (this can cause equipment to run at less than optimum levels or even failures)
2. Right Amount
Too little = metal-to-metal contact, wear, overheating.
Too much = energy loss, leaks, seal failure, higher operating temps.
Use calibrated grease guns, measured oil containers, or automatic dispensers.
3. Right Time
Follow a consistent lubrication schedule (calendar or condition-based).
Critical assets may need more frequent checks.
Use oil analysis or vibration/temperature monitoring to fine-tune intervals.
4. Cleanliness & Contamination Control
Store lubricants in sealed, labeled containers (not open drums or dirty buckets).
Filter new oil before use—new doesn’t always mean clean.
Keep fill points, grease fittings, and transfer tools clean.
Use desiccant breathers, proper seals, and sight glasses to keep out dirt and moisture.
5. Proper Storage & Handling
Store lubricants indoors in a temperature-controlled, dry space.
Organize by type/grade with color-coding or labeling systems.
Use dedicated transfer equipment for each type (avoid cross-contamination).
6. Monitoring & Verification
Keep lubrication logs (what, how much, when, by whom).
Perform oil analysis (viscosity, wear metals, contamination).
Use sight glasses, level gauges, and grease monitoring tools to verify condition.
7. Training & Accountability
Train staff on why lubrication matters, not just how.
Standardize procedures across the team.
Assign responsibility for lubrication to ensure it isn’t overlooked.
Summary
Good lubrication practices can extend equipment life by 30–50%, cut wasted labor, and reduce downtime. The golden rule is: Right lubricant, right amount, right place, right time—kept clean and documented.
At ISL, this is what we help customers implement every day. Reach out to us at info@indsealing.com or call 913-334-5823