SECTOR FOCUS: FOOD-GRADE LUBRICANTS
Food Lube: Overcoming challenges in food lubrication tools
Lubricants raise the efficiency of food processing equipment, but must be chosen carefully – with the right bearing technology – to prevent machine failure and product contamination
Sian How & Lubrication team, SKF
Lubrication is critical to rotating machinery. In the bulk of the manufacturing sector, lubricants can largely be chosen on their performance alone.
In the food industry – where cleanliness is paramount – things are different. Special, non-toxic ‘food grade’ lubricants are required in machinery ranging from baking ovens to packaging equipment.
Strict washdown regimes help to maintain cleanliness. However, the aggressive chemicals used can penetrate bearings housings – leading to potential corrosion and loss of performance. Against this background, food manufacturers need to select bearings – and lubricants – wisely in order to streamline performance.
Rules of the game The European Lubricating Grease Institute, which promotes a greater understanding of lubricant grease, says: “Food lubricants are among the most crucial products in the food chain – small volumes with high impact.”
It says that a number of key regulations affect the use of lubricants within the food industry. ISO 22000, for instance, sets out the requirements for a food safety management system. It helps food manufacturers identify and control safety hazards. Being certified to this standard will foster confidence in customers.
The Hazard Analysis of Critical Control Points (HACCP) programme also exerts an influence on
16 LUBE MAGAZINE NO.167 FEBRUARY 2022
the use of lubricants. It insists that processes are rigidly scrutinised for factors such as cleanliness, contamination and quality. Part of this includes the use of appropriate lubricants.
Another standard, ISO 21469, sets out hygiene requirements for producers of H1 (incidental food contact) lubricants. These lubricants can come into brief contact with food, at a prescribed maximum level. The standard covers the product lifespan of formulation, manufacture, use and handling. Manufacturers with ISO 21469 have been externally assessed and are certified to be of appropriate high quality.
Lubricant problems
Poor lubrication accounts for more than one-third of premature bearing failures. However, conditions in the food industry – such as aggressive washdown and high humidity – can compound the problem and add a new set of challenges.
For instance, as bearing grease absorbs moisture it begins to emulsify. Grease consistency becomes less viscous, allowing it to leak away during washdown. This can cause early bearing failure through accelerated wear and corrosion. To avoid this, the right lubricant needs to be used in the right application. Bearing failure is critical to machine performance. If it happens, it will first affect performance, making rotating machinery less efficient. In time, if untreated, the equipment
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