Why Colour is not a reliable indicator of quality

Misconceptions about lubricants are not just harmless misunderstandings; they can have serious consequences for machine maintenance and operational efficiency. From the belief that you can judge a lubricant’s quality through sensory perception to the idea that lubricants can solve mechanical issues, myths persistently cloud the understanding of how lubricants truly function.

The experts at FUCHS LUBRICANTS SOUTH AFRICA, recognise that these myths can lead to misguided practices and unforeseen costs.

In this article, we unravel a few of these myths and highlight the importance of proper lubricant analysis and application and the pivotal role they play in sustainable and efficient maintenance practices.

Myth 1: Judging Viscosity by Visual Inspection

Many people assume they can assess the viscosity of a lubricant by merely shaking it and observing its flow. However, this belief is misplaced. Viscosity, which refers to the resistance of a fluid to flow, cannot be accurately determined through simple visual inspection, thus the misconception that one can identify an ISO VG 32 or 68 lubricant simply by observing its thickness is misguided.

Viscosity assessment requires laboratory equipment to ensure that the lubricant meets the specific needs of the machinery. Using a lubricant with improper viscosity can lead to equipment failure, highlighting the importance of accurate evaluation.

More so, it's essential to consider that temperature can have a significant effect on viscosity. For example, oil poured in the coolness of the morning may appear different in viscosity compared to the same oil poured at midday. This temperature variation can affect the perceived thickness or viscosity of the oil, but it does not necessarily impact its performance. Thus, relying solely on visual cues can be misleading and should be avoided in favor of rigorous testing and analysis.

Myth 2: Colour Indicates Performance

The colour of a new lubricant is often mistaken as an indicator of its performance. In truth, the dye added to lubricants serves mainly for identification purposes rather than indicating quality or suitability. For instance, a customer might request a "red grease," mistakenly believing that its colour reflects its effectiveness. However, the colour alone does not signify whether the lubricant is appropriate for a specific application. It's essential to base lubricant selection on its properties and compatibility with the intended use, not merely on its appearance.

Myth 3: Sludge Is Harmless Unless Disturbed

Another dangerous misconception is that sludge at the bottom of a lubricant sample is harmless unless disturbed. Actually, the formation of sludge serves as a warning sign, indicating that there is an issue with either the equipment or the lubricant itself. Ignoring the presence of sludge and assuming the lubricant will continue to perform optimally is risky. Instead, sludge should be viewed as a clear indicator that the lubricant has degraded and requires replacement to prevent potential damage to the machinery.

Myth 4: Sediment and Grit as Quality Indicators

Some believe that if a lubricant sample is free of visible sediment or grit, it is of good quality. However, many sediments and particles are microscopic and cannot be detected by the naked eye. Proper equipment, such as microscopes and lab tests, are required to identify contamination or wear particles that could jeopardise equipment health.

Oil analysis is a critical process for monitoring the quality of lubricants over time. By testing oil at regular intervals, technicians can determine its condition and identify potential issues within the machinery. This proactive approach helps avoid equipment failure and prolongs the lifespan of the machinery, ultimately saving costs.

Myth 5: Lubricants Can Fix Mechanical Problems

A common fallacy is that lubricants can resolve mechanical problems. If there is a mechanical issue, such as a leak or unusual noise, the root cause must be addressed. Simply switching to a thicker lubricant will not solve underlying mechanical failures. For instance, a leak may indicate a broken seal that requires repair, not merely a change in lubricant viscosity.

The belief that lubricants can solve all mechanical problems is another major misconception. It might seem like using a different or thicker lubricant could fix issues like leaks or strange noises in machinery. However, lubricants are meant to reduce friction and wear, not to repair the underlying causes of mechanical failures. For example, if a machine is leaking, the problem could be a damaged seal that needs to be fixed directly, rather than just switching to a different type of lubricant. It's important to address the actual cause of mechanical issues for effective maintenance and to avoid further damage.

Conclusion

Dispelling these myths is essential for the proper maintenance and functioning of machinery. Gregory Tarr, the Application Engineers Manager at FUCHS LUBRICANTS SOUTH AFRICA, emphasises the importance of moving beyond sensory perception and superficial examination in determining a lubricant's quality. "Understanding that sensory perception and superficial examination cannot determine a lubricant's quality is vital," he states. "Instead, rely on laboratory analysis and expert guidance to ensure that the right lubricant is selected and applied. By doing so, you can enhance equipment performance, prevent failures, and reduce maintenance costs."

With over 90 years of experience, FUCHS develops, produces, and markets high-grade lubricants and related specialties for virtually all industries. Their comprehensive range of products offers a one-stop solution that meets machine lubrication needs, with a focus on technology, convenience, reliability, sustainability, and cost savings. This extensive expertise ensures that industries can maintain their machinery efficiently and effectively.

Understanding the real purpose of lubricants, alongside ensuring proper diagnostics and repair, is crucial for keeping machinery running smoothly. For those seeking guidance on selecting automotive oils, the FUCHS Oil Chooser is an invaluable tool to find the right oil for your vehicle. For industrial oils, connecting with a FUCHS expert can provide tailored solutions to meet specific machinery needs.

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