Machines, typically found in home appliances, are made up of small components that work together as part of a whole. However, wear and tear can cause these parts to deteriorate, which is why regular maintenance is important.
In particular, machinery lubrication plays a major role in protecting appliances from corrosion and maintaining their proper functioning. In this post, we will discuss what lubrication is and its importance in keeping machines in top shape. We will also touch on some home repair tips for lubricant use.
What is lubrication?
Lubrication is the application of greasy or oily substances called lubricants to the surfaces of moving machine parts, reducing friction and enabling the components to slide smoothly against each other. The application of lubricants forms a thin layer of film between the metal surfaces, helping prevent abrasion as the components come into metal-to-metal contact.
Applying lubricants to home equipment helps regulate operating temperatures, as heat is released when the rotating parts roll past each other. Lubrication also cleans the machine by transporting contaminants and other dirt particles to filters. In addition, it increases the lifespan of the appliance by preventing rust from forming on the metal parts.
Types of base oils used in lubricants
There are different types of base oils used in producing lubricants. These include the following:
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Mineral oils
Mineral oils are refined oils derived from naturally occurring crude oil. Known for their excellent lubricating properties, mineral oil-based lubricants are used in industrial applications where operating temperatures reach as high as 210°C. They are typically applied to mechanical components such as chains, bearings, gears, slides, and threaded connections.
In the home setting, they are recommended for use on drawer slides and refrigerator door gaskets. They can also be applied as thermal fluid to electric components, including transformers and high-voltage switchgear. However, mineral oils are poorly biodegradable. Hence, in some applications, vegetable oils are used as an alternative.
If you need mineral oil for the task at hand, Permatex Anti-Seize Lubricant may be just what you need. It is made of a highly refined blend of aluminum, copper, and graphite lubricants, making it ideal for marine use and even for simple home repairs that need high-temperature resistance. Check out Permatex Anti-Seize Lubricant at the shop →
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Vegetable oils
Vegetable oil-based lubricants are particularly applied to hydraulics, stroke engines, chain saws, and open gears. They are also used in the preventive maintenance of farming equipment such as tractors and sprayers.
Vegetable oils have a high viscosity index, providing a more stable coverage over a wider temperature range. They also have a high flash point, making them less likely to be flammable. In addition, they are generally eco-friendly due to their non-toxicity and biodegradability.
However, vegetable oils in their natural form lack oxidative stability, limiting their capacity for different uses. Their poor low-temperature properties also restrict their functions to certain lubricating applications. Because they don’t flow as well at cold temperatures, they are seldom used for industrial purposes.
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Synthetic oils
Synthetic oils are made from petroleum molecules that have been chemically modified. Synthetic oil-based lubricants are more expensive than mineral-based oils, but the payback is potentially huge due to the efficiencies they can deliver. For example, they provide better fluidity at lower temperatures while reducing the risk of wax crystallizing out of the oil.
Likewise, they work well in extreme temperature environments. And since they have better oxidation resistance, they require less frequent oil changes, which translates to cost savings. Synthetic oil-based lubricants are recommended for use at home on door hinges and roller axles.
WEICON W 44 T® Multi-Spray is a good example of a lubricant made from synthetic oils. It is made from a special formula that combines corrosion protection, water displacement, lubrication, and cleaning in a single product. Check out WEICON W 44T® Multi-Spray at the shop →
What are the consequences of improper lubrication?
When applying grease or spray lubricant to your drawer tracks and rollers, you must perform the process properly. The same goes for your door hinges, garage door rollers and pulleys, or sliding door rollers. Putting oil to your appliances requires proper lubrication, too.
As a rule, you should not either over-apply or under-apply oil or grease. Also, check if you’re using the right type of lubricant. If you’re mixing lubricants, be sure to use the proper combination.
Keep in mind that improper lubrication can result in costly repairs and other consequences. These include the following:
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Equipment failure
There are two kinds of machine wear: abrasive and adhesive. Abrasive wear happens when a rough surface slides across a soft material. Meanwhile, adhesive wear occurs when two solid parts of the appliance slide against each other.
Lubrication is supposed to prevent wear by reducing the friction between the sliding surfaces. Therefore, if the process is performed incorrectly, it cannot serve its purpose. This not only increases deterioration in the appliance but also results in chemical reactions that lead to equipment failure.
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Machine damage
A lubricant containing dirt or other contaminating particles can affect the appliance’s functioning and efficiency. This is because the contaminants accumulate inside bearings and components of the appliance, slowing it down. Hence, before applying lubricants, be sure to check for any impurity that might damage the machine.
Also, note that certain lubricants adversely react with metals, which can cause adhesive wearing. Therefore, when selecting a lubricant for your appliance, make sure to check first its compatibility with the appliance material.
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Leakage
Leakage occurs when two non-compatible lubricants are mixed. For example, combining a mineral oil-based lubricant with a synthetic base results in the formation of additives that react with metal surfaces. This causes the thin metal seal to shrink, leading to lubrication system leakage.
Lubrication plays a key role in machine maintenance
Lubrication helps prevent machine wear by reducing the friction between the moving components of the equipment. It also serves as a protective coating against corrosion and contamination. Moreover, it regulates operating temperatures, maintaining the appliance’s durability.
If you’re looking for top-of-the-line oil or grease for your appliances, Simplex supplies high-quality industrial parts and components, including lubricants, used for various home repair and maintenance applications. Head over to our online shop for our complete product line.
