Machines and vehicles need lubrication to maintain proper operation. The correct way in which lubricants are stored plays an equivalent role to picking the right lubricant. Incorrect storage of lubricants will decrease their operational effectiveness and create expenses for equipment failure along with device repairs.
These storage recommendations will help your lubricants maintain their top condition over an extended time. The following guide explains lubricant storage tips with instructions on preventing errors that decrease lubricant shelf life.
Best Lubrication Storage Tips
The proper lubricant storage safeguards their quality attributes as well as lengthens the duration until their expiration. The following methods will help lubricants stay in perfect condition:
- Store Lubricants in a Cool and Dry Place
- Keep the Containers Sealed
- Store Them Off the Ground
- Label Them Correctly
- Use Older Lubricants First
Store Lubricants in a Cool and Dry Place:
Different storage conditions, such as heat and moisture together with sun exposure, will compromise lubricants’ quality. A dry area with cool temperatures should be used for lubricant storage while also protecting them from both sunlight exposure and extreme heat or cold. When heat acts on the oil, it breaks down, but moisture contamination occurs. A controlled temperature environment acts as a preventative measure to protect lubricant shelf life from preservation issues.
Keep the Containers Sealed:
Exposure to air will trigger two damaging effects on lubricants: oxidation and contamination. Seal your lubricant containers tightly before storage when you are finished with them. The proper sealing of containers stops outside dirt, dust, and water from damaging the quality of the lubricant. Transfer the lubricant immediately to a sealed, clean container when a container displays signs of damage.
Store Them Off the Ground:
Positioning lubricants on the floor makes them susceptible to floor-based contaminations from dust, dirt and moisture. It is best to place lubricant containers on racks or shelves raised at least 6 inches from the floor. Lubricant storage becomes easier and more organized because of the increased accessibility to containers.
Label Them Correctly:
Wrong usage of lubricants may end in equipment breakdowns. Each lubricant container needs to have specific identification details that include its brand and purpose instructions written on its label. Lubricant identification labels and their usage instructions enable workers to apply the suitable lubricants properly on each machine. A proper identification system on lubricant containers helps workers avoid unintentionally combining the usage of various lubricants.
Use Older Lubricants First:
The operational time of lubricants needs to be considered because older stock must get used up before fresh supplies. The “first in, first out” service protocol should be used to keep lubricants fresh by avoiding prolonged storage periods. You should examine both expiration dates along with proper disposal methods for out-of-date lubricants.
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How Incorrect Storage Can Decrease the Quality of Lubricants?
Equipment damage, together with elevated maintenance expenses, results from storing lubricants incorrectly. Such storage methods lower the effectiveness of lubricants. Multiple negative effects result from the improper storage of lubricants, as follows:
- Exposure to Extreme Temperatures
- Contamination from Water and Dirt
- Improper Handling and Transfers
- Storing Near Chemicals
Exposure to Extreme Temperatures:
High temperatures and extreme cold temperatures both damage lubricant composition when used for storage. The heat triggers oxidation reactions that deteriorate lubrication performance, while cold temperatures make the substance thick and non-efficient. A stable temperature should always be used for lubricant storage to maintain their quality.
Contamination from Water and Dirt:
Lubricants find their most dangerous threats in moisture and dirt particles. Water contamination within the storage container leads to both rust development and diminished lubricating properties of the oil. Dust, along with dirt particles, produces mechanical wear that harms machinery operation. Surrounding lubricants with proper sealants in a dust-free area works to protect them from forming contaminants.
Improper Handling and Transfers:
The use of unclean and exposed containers for lubricant transfer operations introduces harmful substances to the lubricant system. It is essential to dedicate specific equipment that remains free of contamination for moving lubricants during operations. Any transfer tools used for different oil types must be dedicated to prevent harmful contaminants.
Storing Near Chemicals:
All lubricant storage locations must be separate from chemicals, solvents and all hazardous materials. The fumes produced by these materials will combine with the lubricant and change its intended chemical properties. A suitable space exists for separate storage of store lubricants to provide safety measures together with preservation of quality performance.
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Final Thoughts
The proper lubricant storage tips allow customers to save money and maintain longer lubricant shelf life. Storage conditions that are both dry and cool, together with sealed containers and the prevention of contaminants, will help maintain proper lubricant quality. Your machinery performance will reach its peak potential when you apply these basic guidelines to maintain your lubricant quality.
Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs
- How long can lubricants be stored?
The recommended period for proper lubricant storage amounts to 3-5 years before their expiration. You need to examine the expiration date before utilizing the lubricants.
- Can I store lubricants outside?
Extreme heat together with moisture and contact with dirt will degrade your lubricant’s quality. Therefore, outside storage of lubricants is prohibited.
- What happens if water gets into my lubricants?
Water contamination leads to three related problems, including rust formation, sludge creation and reduced oil lubricating ability. Containers must stay sealed while they are stored in a dry, specialized area.
