Learn more at www.igus.com/drylin
The true cost
of bearing lubrication
By Matt Mowry, Product Manager, drylin
®
linear bearings, igus
®
Inc.
Introduction
Today, machine and equipment manufacturers are feeling more pressure than ever to reduce costs without sacrificing
machine performance, and this balancing act can be difficult to achieve. Original equipment
manufacturers (OEMs) often overlook a simple solution that can have a positive, long-
term impact on profitability for themselves and their customers: the elimination
of bearing lubricant. By eliminating lubrication systems where possible,
OEMs can reduce production costs, while making their equipment more
marketable and less expensive to operate for end users.
What are the issues with bearing lubricant? According to a major
ball bearing company, 54 percent of bearing failures are lubrication-
related (see chart right). In a study by the Massachusetts Institute
of Technology (MIT), it was estimated approximately $240 billion is
lost annually (across U.S. industries) due to downtime and repairs for
manufacturing equipment damaged by poor lubrication
1
. Improper
bearing lubrication or re-lubrication accounts for up to 50 percent of
machine failures. By eliminating lubrication from machinery, OEMs can
minimize the costs and risks associated with maintenance for the end user.
At the same time, costs related to the proper disposal of oil can be eliminated,
and the initial expenditure for ancillary components and processes (grease lines,
zerks, manifolds, etc.) can be decreased.
There is a lower cost, easier-to-maintain machine component that eliminates the total cost of bearing lubricants: high
performance, dry running plastic bearings.
The Hidden Costs of Lubrication
Proper lubrication delivery is critical for the operation of ball bearings, and most require continued maintenance for re-
lubrication. The re-lubrication process typically requires scheduled machine downtime, which increases maintenance costs
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storage & handling
unfound or
unjustified error
installation error
contamination
other
inadequate lubrication
Learn more at www.igus.com/drylin
