ATIEL & UEIL Joint Sustainability Committee
• Condition monitoring of lubricants in use can significantly extend drain intervals. There are many sources available on how LCM (lubricant condition monitoring) is effectively carried out as well as interpreted30
. 10.3.2 Hydraulic Fluids
• Hydraulic fluids tend to be difficult to recover due to contamination and degradation over time. A key recommendation is fluid condition monitoring to assess contamination levels and optimize fluid change intervals.
• Filtration and separation systems can also aid in extending the life of hydraulic oils, reducing the need for total waste disposal.
10.3.3 Greases and Chain Oils
• Greases and chain oils are typically total loss lubricants, meaning they are intended to be lost or consumed during use. These lubricants are often used in applications like chains, bearings, and open gears, where recovery is either impractical or impossible.
• Because these products are designed for total or partial loss, the challenge lies in ensuring that the use of these lubricants does not cause environmental harm. Companies can encourage the use of EALs – Environmentally Acceptable Lubricants, in the case these products are expected to be lost to the environment as part of standard use. Lubricants certified against programs such as the Nordic Swan, Blauer Engel, EPA and EU Ecolabel ensure criteria such as high biodegradability, low toxicity and low bioaccumulation are satisfied. Collection of such products after use is not possible and the EoL cannot follow a circular path.
• For open systems, where collection of small quantities is possible through drip trays or other systems, heavy contamination is usually observed, and disposal has to be carried out according to local waste regulations. Preventive maintenance protocols are still essential to ensure that lubricants remain effective throughout their service life. Regular inspections and monitoring of lubricant levels can help identify potential issues and extend intervals between reapplication.
10.3.4 Turbine Oils
• Turbine oils often experience high thermal loads, so implementing regular oil analysis programs to monitor acid number, viscosity, and wear metals can help determine when oil should be changed. This proactive approach can extend oil life, minimize waste, reduce downtime and avoid unnecessary replacements..
• Use of online filtration systems, including magnetic filters and fine filtration, can help remove contaminants and improve the overall condition of turbine oils.
10.3.5 Industrial Gear Oils
• Ensure proper sealing to prevent contamination from external sources like water, dirt, and metal particles, which can degrade gear oils. Also implementing filtration systems can extend the life of industrial gear oils. These systems will remove metal debris and other contaminants, ensuring smoother operation and less frequent oil changes.
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https://research.utwente.nl/files/97310004/Accepted_manuscript_chemweno_et.al_Mech_Systems.doc x.pdf
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