Reasons for Lubrication

Why do we do it? We are to look at the main reasons why lubrication is used in an ENGINNERING SENSE. Providing lubrication to a machine; both inside aid out will contribute to the longevity of the moving parts. Not providing adequate lubrication, or any at all WILL CERTAINLY be to the detriment of the mechanical system in question. Let us now look at lubrication at further length.

Introduction In this short slide show we will: Understand the cause of friction, the hazard it poses & how we overcome it Reduction of wear Reduction of heat Protection from dirt / contamination Prevents rust / corrosion Power transmission

GOING BACK A BIT EGYPTIANS MOVING LARGE STONE BLOCKS, 2600BC BEEF TALLOW USED WITH SLEDS 700BC GREEKS USED ANIMAL FAT TO LUBRICATE AXLES FOR CHARIOT RACES 200AD ROMANS LUBRICATED CHARIOTS 5TH CENTURY ANIMAL FAT USED IN UK TO LUBRICATE GATES ON CASTLES 8TH CENTURY VIKINGS USED WHALE FAT TO LUBRICATE RUDDERS ON BOATS 15TH CENTURY, OIL WAS STARTED TO BE USED WITH MECHANICAL DEVICES

Steel Surface under an Electron Microscope

Why use a Lubricant? Introduction of a lubricant between the two moving surfaces will solve a lot of problems and provide a great amount of additional benefits

REDUCES WEAR Reducing friction also explains the manner in which a lubricant reduces wear. If they were not lubricated, some of the small peaks would be broken off as one block moves over the other. Eventually, this would result in visible wear on the blocks. The peaks cannot contact each other with lubricant present and wear is reduced accordingly.

REMOVES HEAT A certain amount of heat is always developed at the points of contact between rubbing parts, even though they are lubricated. Oil absorbs heat. The heat usually passes from the oil, through the sides of the oil reservoir, and into the air. Lubricants are an excellent heat transfer agent.

PROTECTS FROM DIRT Proper use of lubricant can keep dirt or contamination from entering a bearing and damaging the smooth surfaces. Each time a new addition of grease is applied to the bearing, a supply of clean grease is forced out the ends to maintain a protective seal. In many cases lubricant such as oil is removed from the process, filtered & re-fed back in. This is the case with a car engine

PREVENTS RUST Rust is a reaction with unprotected metal surfaces that come in contact with air and moisture. Lubricants provide a protective barrier which blocks the air and moisture from contacting the bearing surfaces. Additives in lubricants further enhance the protective qualities even under extreme conditions.

TRANSMITS POWER Hydraulic equipment uses oil as a medium for power transmittal. Lubricants can be used very effectively in this application. This would only be the case with using the correctly specified Hydraulic Oils for the specified application.

Continual Care of Mechanical Systems Look after it and it will look after you Like our own dear little car Correct lubricant at correct intervals