SECTOR FOCUS: RAILWAY LUBRICANTS


Benefits of oil condition monitoring for the rail industry


Peter Hardy, Business Manager for Lubricant and Fluid Condition Monitoring, SOCOTEC UK


With ever-growing demand for rail as a transport option, there is increased focus on the efficiency and reliability of trains. Asset failure can have a big impact on passenger and freight trains, causing disruption and delays.


The testing and analysis of oils, coolants and greases is vital to ensure any machinery is effectively lubricated - and the rail sector is no different. In fact, oil condition monitoring for the railways is fundamental to the safety and consistency of trains as a mode of transport.


The primary function of oil as a lubricant is to reduce surface friction, remove heat, reduce water and control contamination. Oil analysis, therefore, can provide a breadth of information on the long-term performance of assets in relation to these functions of lubrication.


Prevention, not cure Predictive and preventative maintenance is key to minimising disruption on the rail. If lubricants are


14 LUBE MAGAZINE NO.150 APRIL 2019 Figure 1. Oil condition monitoring.


not monitored as part of a maintenance programme, then there will be no prior warning or identification that the oil is not fit for purpose or the asset is not fit for operation. Detection of metal particles in the lubricant, for example, indicates premature wear of the asset which, if left to continue, could lead to a component failure.


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