Out Of Sight Out Of Mind? 3 Ways To Ensure Your Lubrication Reservoir Pump Is Working Properly
If you run a machine shop, chances are good that you work with lubricating reservoir pumps on a daily basis. These types of pumps are a staple in machine shops. In fact, they're responsible for keeping all the machines properly lubricated. Unfortunately, many people assume that since an alarm sounds when the oil is low, they don't need to worry about it. However, that's not actually the case. The fact is that your machines need to be inspected on a regular basis to ensure that the lubrication reservoir pumps are operating properly. Here are three steps you need to take to make sure that your machines are receiving the lubrication they need.
Check the Oil Level
You may think that since the oil moves slowly through your machines that you don't need to check the levels. However, that's not the case. You should actually check the oil levels at the start of each shift. That way, you know exactly how much oil is there and whether it should be topped off before the start of the shift. It's better to get the oil levels taken care of before work begins than to have to stop in the middle of the shift to refill the lubricants.
Check the Oil Flow
The next thing you should do is monitor the oil flow. The best way to monitor oil flow is to begin on the day you fill the tank. That way, you can tell how long it takes for your machine to use the oil you've added. Begin by making a note of the oil level when you first top of the tank. Next, check the tank at the same time each day for the next several days. Finally, make note of the amount of oil that's been used over the course of those days. If the oil level hasn't changed, or it's changed too drastically, you'll need to adjust the flow on your pump. If that doesn't resolve the issue, you'll need to replace the pump altogether.
Check the Oil Filter
Oil filters can also affect the performance of your lubrication reservoir pump. Unfortunately, many people don't think to inspect or change those. If it's been a while since you inspected the filters on your pumps, you should do that right away. If your filter is clogged with sludge, or oil flow is lacking pressure, you need to change the filter right away.
For more information, contact a local supplier like The Buckman Group, Inc.