To avoid contamination of large stationary tanks and the lubricant in the tanks, consider implementing contamination control measures, including:

1. Install high-quality tank breathers on each tank.

2. Install continuous operation, low-volume filters on each tank.

3. Install filters on the supply and discharge pumps.

4. Install covers to prevent direct impingement of water from storms.

5. Periodically drain, clean and recoat the internal surfaces.

6. Dedicate pumps and piping to each tank, from supply to discharge, to prevent cross-contamination of lubricants during handling.

7. Install product-specific fittings on the discharge side of each piping system to prevent accidental cross-contamination between products.

8. Exercise additional caution to assure that products sensitive to cross-contamination (for example, turbine and motor oil) cannot in any way have intersecting flow streams or have common piping and pumping systems.

One simple way I have tracked the success of lubrication best practices in contamination control is by charting filter changes on equipment due to plugged filters. Before implementing improved contamination exclusion practices, we were getting at least one plugged filter per week on eight separate lube systems. A year after implementing best practices, we may get a plugged filter every three months. This has cut downtime costs, off-quality time, as well as filter and oil costs. (Submitted by Brian Lees, MLT I, Norske Canada. Thanks Brian.)

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From the "Lubrication Excellence, Reliability World, Lean Manufacturing 2006 Conference Proceedings":

A hand cart is a portable, off-line filtration system when used to filter fluid inside the reservoir. It is a transfer cart when used to move lubricants from a drum to a reservoir. In either mode, it is an economical solution to off-line filtration requirements.

Filter carts should be used to remove particles, thereby preserving the working life of the oil. They are not just a tool for emergency remedial measures when dealing with contaminated lubricants and hydraulic fluids. To avoid cross-contamination of fluids, make sure there is a dedicated filter cart for each type of lubricant in use. Filter carts should be fitted with quick disconnects and should be fitted with the particle removal and water–absorbing filter elements. Filter carts should be part of a routine that includes new oil filtering, transferring, and dispensing oils.

Filter carts ensure higher levels of cleanliness when used in daily operations. They are the ideal way to prefilter and transfer fluids into reservoirs. Fluids should always be filtered before being put into service. Many plant personnel feel new oil is clean enough to use right away. However, most new fluids are unfit for use, due to initial high contamination levels. Contamination, both particulate and water, may be added to new fluid during processing, mixing, or handling. This contamination can be removed with the use of a hand cart.

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