Introduction
Lubrication involves the application of a fluid, usually oil or grease, to friction points on a machine to decrease wear and tear from friction and reduce the amount of heat created by the friction. This can reduce the potential for damage to the machine, and keep its parts moving smoothly, thus reducing overall downtime and increasing productivity. Regular lubrication is an essential component of preventive maintenance, and involves the inspection and application of lubricants to the various mechanical parts of a machine at certain predetermined intervals to prevent corrosion or excessive wear.
Types of Lubrication
There are four basic types of lubrication: solid lubrication, fluid lubrication, forced lubrication, and self-lubrication.
Solid lubrication is the most basic form of lubrication. This is simply a form of friction control that involves a solid, such as a graphite-based material, applied to an object to reduce friction. This type of lubrication is most effective when there is little motion between parts of a machine, such as in a wheel-bearing assembly.
Fluid lubrication is the most common type of lubrication, and involves the application of a liquid, usually oil or grease, to friction points. This type of lubrication is most effective when there is more motion between the parts of a machine, such as in a compressor or a motor.
Forced lubrication is a type of lubrication in which the lubricant is forced into the machine under pressure. This type of lubrication is usually used when the lubricant needs to be applied to a precise location, and allows for a more uniform distribution of the lubricant.
Self-lubrication is a form of lubrication in which the lubricant is applied to the machine by the machine itself, rather than by the operator. This allows for a more consistent application of the lubricant, and reduces the potential for human error.
Advantages of Forced Lubrication
Forced lubrication has several advantages over other types of lubrication. One of the primary advantages of forced lubrication is that it allows for a more precise application of the lubricant. This makes it easier to apply the lubricant to precise locations, which keeps the parts of the machine functioning more efficiently.
Another advantage of forced lubrication is that it allows for a more consistent application of the lubricant. This is especially important when working with moving parts, as it helps reduce friction between the parts and keep them operating at a high efficiency level.
Thirdly, forced lubrication helps to reduce the risk of human error. As the lubricant is applied by the machine itself, the operator does not need to continually monitor the lubrication process. This may reduce the potential for operator error, which could lead to over-lubrication or under-lubrication.
Finally, forced lubrication helps to keep the parts of a machine in good condition for longer. This is because the lubricant is applied in a precise manner and with consistent pressure, which can help to reduce the potential for corrosion or wear and tear on the machine parts.
Conclusion
Forced lubrication is a type of lubrication that involves applying a lubricant under pressure to precise locations on a machine. This type of lubrication has several advantages, including a more precise and consistent application of the lubricant, reduced potential for human error, and improved machine parts longevity. Forced lubrication is an important part of any preventative maintenance plan, as it helps to keep machines functioning efficiently and reduce downtime.
