In the maintenance world, tools are indispensable because they allow a maintainer to perform and complete work safely, consistently, and efficiently. When we think of tools, most immediately picture a handheld device used to accomplish a task. Only some will recognize...
Technologies for monitoring machine vibration levels have been around for decades. The further development of such technologies, however, has been relatively slow. With the rapid advancement of digital component technologies providing ever-new opportunities, time has...
In the late 1980s, I took one of the hardest courses of my graduate studies - quantum mechanics. Quantum mechanics is the physics and math behind how all matter is formed and interacts with the world around it. Amongst other things, quantum mechanics can answer some...
Most lubricant products include a "best before date" on the packaging and labeling materials. Provided as a "when to use by" guide, these dates are based on a manufacturer's projected shelf life of a product when stored as directed, per information on its packaging....
It is common to hear about deposits or varnish in turbine oils, but can other oils also suffer from varnish? The short answer is yes. Once an oil (regardless of its application or type) has been exposed to thermally stressful conditions, contaminants, and severe...
In the complex world of industrial machine maintenance, ensuring the health and longevity of industrial equipment is paramount. Industrial oil analysis plays a crucial role in this endeavor, providing valuable insights into the condition of machinery and the quality...
Oil analysis, often called Oil Condition Monitoring (OCM), has been integral to industrial maintenance programs for more than half a century. Throughout its history, it has contributed to maintenance and improving the profitability of the industries that effectively...
Typically, when an oil undergoes degradation, the first culprit to be blamed is oxidation. We often hear that the oil has oxidized, producing varnish, leading to its degradation. While this simple statement may seem plausible, it is not the only way oil can degrade....
Wind energy has become an increasingly important component of our energy grid as the world moves toward more sustainable power generation sources. Although harnessing wind power to do helpful work extends back to ancient times (think sail ships and windmills), stable...
I chose this topic this issue because the biggest bang for any organization is to get their lubricants right. With anywhere from 50% - 70% of your current downtime being caused by improper lubrication, there is only one way to spend your limited maintenance and...
