Spring Tips for Your Oil & Grease Equipment When Temperatures Rise

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Spring Tips for Your Oil and Grease Equipment When Temperatures Rise

With spring coming, the rising temperatures create new challenges making it important to know the best practices and facts about grease usage for your equipment.

March 16, 2023
2 Minute Read

In extreme hot temperatures, a decrease in the lubricant viscosity can reduce the thickness of the lubricant film rendering it less effective. As the weather grows hotter you should plan to apply lubricant more often and in greater amounts. Different lubricants are rated according to their heat resistance but don’t forget to factor in the additional heat of summer operation when choosing an appropriate product.

What can you do to properly maintain equipment and machines during hot seasons?

Tips for Equipment and Workers Exposed to Hot Weather

Use a thicker grease so it can stay adhesive – Choosing a thicker grease option with a higher viscosity will help. Switching from a winter grade NLGI #0 or #1 to a thicker summer grade NLGI #2 to keep the grease in the joints and will hold stronger for warmer weather.
Apply lubrication more frequently – Warmer weather will cause the grease to lose viscosity. Meaning re-lubrication is a must. An auto lubricator can assist with this task. Allowing workers to focus on the job at hand and not worry about maintaining their machines and equipment.
Be cautious about rainy conditions – Spring normally means rain is coming. Machines will become slippery, so it is important to watch your step to avoid falling. As well, more rain can lead to lubrication being washed out of joints. This will require re-lubricating machines throughout the workday.

Conclusion

Preparing for warmer weather and rainy conditions can have a positive impact on productivity and safety. Increased machine usage will require cool down time. Rain and heat will affect the viscosity of lubrication requiring more frequent lubrication. Workers must stay safe when climbing machines in rainy conditions. Follow these practices for the best results on the job.