Automotive
In automotive manufacturing, a majority of machines rely on various components such as spindles, gearboxes, mechanical or hydraulic presses, slides, and cylinders, all of which require proper lubrication to function effectively. Over time, the fluids used for lubrication become contaminated, leading to wear and tear on machine parts. This contamination can result in surfaces touching, seal leakage, sticking hydraulic valves, increased friction, rising temperatures, and accelerated wear.
To combat these issues, it is crucial to maintain control over the level of contamination in lubricants and hydraulic fluids. By ensuring clean fluids and effectively managing contamination levels, automotive manufacturers can mitigate wear and tear on machinery, prolong the lifespan of components, and optimize overall operational efficiency.
At the commencement of the automotive plant process, stamping presses play a pivotal role. Among the primary oil-lubricated components, the hydraulic power unit stands out as crucial. This unit is responsible for supplying the necessary pressure to facilitate the stamping process. In the event of a hydraulic power unit failure, the entire stamping production line will come to a halt, underscoring the critical nature of this component in automotive manufacturing.
In the challenging environment of injection molding, machines contend with substantial particulate and mild water contamination. The gearbox and hydraulic components emerge as the pivotal oil-lubricated elements within this setup. The gearbox propels the screw, directing the product towards the mold, while the hydraulic components actuate the injection plunger to propel material into the mold. The failure of these components not only compromises safety but also disrupts production.
Despite the presence of OEM-specified filtration systems, it is imperative to incorporate supplementary protection measures to safeguard these critical components. Doing so not only fortifies the reliability of the injection molding machines but also ensures uninterrupted production and enhanced operational safety.
Screw conveyors operate in environments characterized by significant particulate and mild water contamination, the severity of which depends on the specific process they are involved in. Within these systems, the driving gearbox stands out as the primary oil-lubricated component. Responsible for transporting material from one location to another, the gearbox plays a pivotal role. Any failure of this critical component would lead to a halt in production, emphasizing its indispensable role in ensuring operational continuity.
Process pumps operate in environments characterized by heavy particulate and water contamination, creating a challenging and wet setting. The main oil-lubricated component within these pumps is the bearings in the pump housing. Given their sensitivity to contamination, the bearings play a critical role in the overall performance of the process pumps, making it essential to effectively manage and mitigate the impact of contaminants to ensure optimal functionality
Establishing an optimal lube room within every plant is essential for maintaining lubrication-related supplies and fostering a culture of meticulous oil handling standards. The lube room should be strategically located in an area with minimal particle and dirt presence, facilitating easy temperature control for optimal storage conditions.
Storage and Filtration of New Oil
The lube room serves as a central hub for storing new oil, housing storage drums and drum racks. Prior to use, new oil should undergo filtration, either through storage units equipped with built-in filtration or via the utilization of filter carts to cleanse oil in drums. Furthermore, the storage units should be equipped with desiccant breathers to mitigate moisture ingress.
Organization and Inventory
In addition to new oil storage, the lube room should accommodate transfer pumps, valves, filter carts, portable storage containers, and various lubrication-related supplies such as grease guns, oil cans, unused filters, cleaning materials, and spill absorbents. Careful organization of these supplies is pivotal for efficient inventory management and ease of access.
Cultivating a Culture of Excellence
Beyond being a storage space, the lube room serves as a platform for fostering a culture of effective and meticulous oil handling standards within the company. By implementing best practices and maintaining a well-organized lube room, companies can reinforce their commitment to optimal lubrication procedures and maintenance protocols.
In essence, the lube room plays a multifaceted role, not only as a storage and transfer space for oil-related assets but also as a cornerstone for promoting excellence in oil handling practices within the organization.