From the Lubrication Excellence 2004 Conference Proceedings

An excerpt from "Detecting and Controlling Foam and Aeration".

Loose fittings on the suction side of a pump can be a common source of air. It is easy to check for leaks by coating the fittings with foamy shaving cream and watching for dimples. Often there will be a number of leaks, so it is important to perform this test over all points where air may enter the system.

More about the Lubrication Excellence 2004 Conference Proceedings

For many industries, production downtime and scheduled outages are few-and-far between. While logic and best practice may suggest a need for system redesign, a filtration upgrade or a complete flush, the pressure from production to continue operations until the next scheduled shutdown usually takes precedence - and rightly so.

So what can be done as a stopgap measure to help relieve the problem until a lasting solution can be found? One possibility may be the use of a portable filtration system. Because many problems are caused by particle buildup, the simple act of using a portable system may be all it takes to survive until a permanent solution can be found. It works much the same way as an offline dialysis unit may be used on a patient with kidney failure, until a permanent solution, in this case a transplant, can be found.

Read the full story

Consider using containers with self-closing spouts to avoid using funnels. If funnels must be used, clean them between uses and store them in zip-lock bags to keep them clean.

Most hydraulic reservoirs, turbine reservoirs and gear boxes have drain ports with plugs. Removing the plug and adding a male quick-disconnect allows for safer, cleaner and faster connections when it's time to add oil.