Lube-Tips

Quick Filter Check

When checking differential filter clogging indicators, be sure that the pilot holes in the filter body (the ones that feed the indicator with oil pressure) are clear of debris. This will help ensure you are receiving the correct signal.

Tip for Reducing Bearing Failures

If you are experiencing premature anti-friction bearing failures, you should not only look at your lubrication practices but also your installation practices. When induction bearing heaters are used, the inner race heats faster than the outer race. This causes a thermal differential between the inner and outer race of the bearing, which will reduce the bearing’s internal clearance. If this differential is allowed to climb high enough, all internal clearance in the bearing can be eliminated and damage to the balls and races can occur.

Smart Valve Labeling

A good way to make sure valves are put in the proper operating position after maintenance is to affix permanent tags on the valves indicating their normal operating position. Wording such as, “This valve normally open for operation,” is very helpful. A pre-startup checklist will add another layer of protection.

Advice for Oil Reservoir Baffles and Settling Zones

Baffles are used to prevent fluid just returned to the tank from passing directly back to the pump inlet. For a number of reasons, a longer transit path is considered beneficial, as it encourages better heat conduction from the fluid, better contamination and air separation, and better mixing with the bulk fluid. This is usually accomplished by separating the inlet and outlet by as long of a flow path as feasible.

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