The 5 pillars of effective lubrication for preventative maintenance

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T​​​​​​​he mining industry relies on heavy machinery and equipment operating in some of the harshest environments on earth. The team at Lubrication Engineering understands the crucial role effective lubrication plays in maintaining efficiency, increasing uptime, and extending the lifespan of mining assets.  

A well-structured lubrication strategy is built on five fundamental pillars: lubricant selection, proper application, contamination control, condition monitoring, and storage & handling. By implementing best lubrication practices, mining sites can enhance equipment performance and reliability, while reducing waste and energy consumption.

Choosing the right lubricant is the foundation of an effective maintenance program. Heavy machinery used on mine sites like haul trucks, crushers, and underground digger rigs operate under extreme loads, high temperatures and harsh conditions. Using the correct lubricant ensures optimal performance and reduces wear and tear. Lubrication Engineers^® offers high-performance lubricants designed to withstand extreme conditions - reducing re-lubrication frequency and extending equipment lifespan. Their advanced formulations help industries optimise their lubrication strategy, minimising operational costs. Almatek^® Mine & Quarry Grease LE1233 is engineered to stay where it’s applied. With a high level of tackiness, it won’t pound out or wash out, even in the harshest environments.

Applying lubricants correctly is crucial to their effectiveness. Over-lubrication can lead to excess heat, energy loss, and component failure, while under-lubrication causes increased friction and wear. Machinery operations benefit from automated lubrication systems, such as DropsA’s centralised lubrication systems, which ensures precise application of the right amount of lubricant is delivered where needed, optimising performance and reducing unnecessary waste.

Contaminants like dust, dirt, water, and debris are among the leading causes of equipment failure. Effective contamination control involves proper sealing, filtration, and maintenance practices to prevent foreign particles from compromising lubricant performance. Using high-quality lubricants minimises the need for frequent replacements, leading to reduced waste and lower environmental impact – key factors in remote mining operations where maintenance downtime is costly.

Taking a proactive approach to regular monitoring of lubricant condition helps detect early signs of equipment wear and contamination before they lead to equipment failure.   

Performing regular oil analysis provides valuable insights into machinery health, allowing for proactive maintenance. This approach not only enhances reliability but also contributes to energy savings and sustainability by optimising lubricant usage in large-scale mining operations.

Proper storage and handling of lubricants ensure their effectiveness and longevity. Factors like temperature, humidity, and contamination exposure impact lubricant performance. Using clean, sealed containers like OilSafe^® and purpose-built isoPOD Lubrication Dispensing Systems prevents contamination.

Sustainability continues to be a priority in the mining industry, where reducing environmental impact is essential. Lubrication practices significantly impact energy consumption, waste production, and overall environmental footprint. Lubrication Engineers^® high-performance lubricants are designed to reduce friction, lower operating temperatures, and improve energy efficiency. These benefits translate to reduced power consumption and lower carbon emissions, making industrial processes more eco-friendly.

Lubrication Engineers^® is redefining lubrication storage and supply with a sustainable approach that moves beyond traditional plastic pails and steel drums. Recognising the environmental challenges posed by conventional packaging, the company has developed an innovative Bulk Disposable Tank made from recyclable corrugated board. This solution not only reduces waste management costs but also significantly lowers the environmental impact, aligning with industry best practices for sustainability.

A well-executed lubrication strategy not only helps maintain your machinery, but is also a powerful step toward a more sustainable and cost-effective future in the mining industry. By integrating these pillars of best practice lubrication and utilising Lubrication Engineers^® advanced lubricant solutions, mining operations can enhance equipment reliability, reduce waste, and significantly lower energy consumption.

Don’t let costly breakdowns slow you down. Almatek^® Mine & Quarry LE1233 is the proven solution to extend equipment life, cut maintenance costs, and keep operations running smoothly. See the results for yourself, and get in touch Lubrication Engineering - the exclusive distributors for Lubrication Engineers products in Australia.