Hey Ricky,
very interesting article, thanks for sharing!
From my experience, under lubrication is definitely one of the most frequent reasons for failures. Based on vibration analysis, detecting under lubricated machine parts, especially bearings, can prevent unplanned downtime. I would be interested to chat with you on that topic, Ricky, I will send you an email.
In case someone is interested in seeing a case study on under-lubricated parts detected by AiSight, feel free to reach out to me: michael.smith@sensirion.com
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Michael Smith
Key Account Manager
Sensirion Connected Solutions
Chicago IL
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Original Message:
Sent: 03-08-2023 11:42 AM
From: Ricky Smith
Subject: Exterminate Lube Problems
An enormous amount of productivity is lost because the correct oil or grease is not professionally installed at the right time. Lubrication is a critical responsibility but, in many organizations, effective techniques and the technicians who know and do them get little respect. Building the role of lubrication experts is a relatively low-cost way to materially improve reliability.
Studies have shown that 70% to 85% of equipment failures are self-induced, meaning that maintenance practices and processes are solely responsible for the failures. A survey I conducted online shows that poor lubrication practices represent about40% of maintenance related self-induced failures. In the same study, more than 80% of respondents indicated they consider lubrication to be a significant problem in their operation.
Lubrication plays a role in the operation of most equipment such as gear reducers, electric motors, chain drives, air compressors, bearings, and more, so it is obvious that doing it properly is key to the success of capital-intensive companies. One of the main reason companies struggle with lubrication effectiveness is they over-rely on standard original equipment manufacturer (OEM) recommendations. Instead, lubrication activities should be driven by asset health and the true lubrication needs of the asset. The combination of the right lubrication activities and proper practices creates a significant opportunity to improve plant reliability.
If you would like a copy of this article, you download on this thread or send me an email at rsmith@worldclassmaintenance.org
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Ricky Smith CMRP CMRT
Vice President
World Class Maintenance
Central, SC
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