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Create a dedicated lube room with the help of Mobil distributors

Correct lubricant selection is essential to good machine operation, and the use of high-quality oils like Mobil DTE 10 Excel 32 from a Mobil distributor can help achieve measurable improvements in hydraulic efficiency, but there’s more to good lubrication practices than just using the right oil. If you store your lubricants in your working area, you may be creating a number of problems for yourself.

Firstly, even if your operatives are very strict about closing and covering lubricant containers, there’s still a chance of contaminants getting in. After all, it can be practically impossible to keep some industrial environments clean. Secondly, lubricants can experience chemical degradation if stored in a harsh climate. Finally, lubricant spills can present a substantial slip hazard to a busy workplace. Fortunately, many of these problems can be avoided, or at least mitigated, by a good lube room.

Do the research

A good lube room involves more than just moving your new lubricants to a separate room, so a bit of research is needed first. The first task is to pick a suitable space. You’ll want something that’s not too far from where the lubricants are needed of course, but you’ll also want to make sure there’s no unnecessary foot traffic coming through. The fewer people entering the lube room, the easier it will be to keep it clean, which is one of the main reasons for having a dedicated lube room.

You’ll also want to make sure there’s plenty of space to store a sufficient stock of lubricants in an orderly manner. Organization is key here. What’s more, it’s not just about storing those 20 barrels of oil you ordered from your Mobil distributor. You may want to consider your processes for delivering clean lubricants accurately, which might mean extra space for transfer containers or dispensing machinery. You’ll also want cabinet space to store other lubricant-related items neatly, such as filters, grease guns and spray lubricants.

Prepare the space

In terms of safety, a nonslip floor is an essential. Lubricants are designed to reduce friction, so any floor will need a suitable level of slip resistance. Chemical-resistant flooring is also a good idea, and adequate lighting and relevant warning signs are obvious necessary safety features. A fire hose or other fire-suppressant system should also be available.

You may also want to consider if controlled access is needed. Do really you want all employees to have access to the lube room, or do you prefer to limit access to those who are adequately trained in lubricant handling? If it’s the latter, you will need a lockable door of some kind.

Finally, depending on the climate and the lubricants you use, you may want to install a HVAC (heating ventilation and air conditioning) system, because a controlled climate can help slow the chemical degradation of some lubricants. Leading Mobil distributors should be able to advise you on optimal storage conditions for your lubricants.

Once you’ve prepared the room and installed shelving, cabinets and any other necessary furniture, it’s then essential to get the cooperation of you personnel. You can have the best practices in the world, but your lube room will not be successful if your team doesn’t have the right attitude.

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