The Challenge
A plastic pipe extruder plant – serving agriculture, storm water and residential customers – used multiple types of oil for their applications. Having eight separate locations, the day-to-day logistics for managing and ordering oil was not optimal. However, the biggest oversight was the use of conventional gear oil in their primary assets, the extrusion machines.
After a brief discussion with AMSOIL Industrial Lubrication Engineer Jim Pezoldt, the manager agreed to have a team of AMSOIL engineers and lubrication specialists perform an onsite survey and summary to see how they could deliver an effective lubricant management plan that could be used by all locations.
Addressing the Challenge: Teamwork
The AMSOIL Industrial team got to work, surveying the facilities. After cataloging all equipment, noting the requirements and collecting baseline oil samples, they created a spreadsheet of data, which functioned as a master list for all locations. This list included the different types of applications, part numbers and oil types used.
Solution
In just two months and with no downtime, the team converted the client from conventional oil to synthetic oil, eliminating waste and reducing the number of lubricants to manage across all locations. They also integrated the client into the AMSOIL Industrial ordering system, providing them with single-source, on-demand ordering for each location to purchase as needed from day one.
“Too often, manufacturers are sold on the concept that lubricants are all the same. It’s our job to show them what an optimized lubricant program can achieve; to partner with them to accomplish their goals.”
– AMSOIL Industrial Senior Business Development Manager and Lubrication Engineer Jim Pezoldt
Implementation: Lubrication Management Plan
Converting to synthetic lubricants streamlined operations for the client, reducing the number of lubricants to manage by 33%. This transition will lead to decreased wear on primary assets and lower annual oil consumption.
To monitor asset health and ensure continued performance, AMSOIL Industrial conducts periodic analytical ferrography. This predictive oil analysis test detects wear particles in machinery, providing valuable data over time to confirm reduced wear.
Optimize Operations: Partner with AMSOIL Industrial
By partnering with AMSOIL Industrial, the plastic pipe extruder plant successfully addressed its challenges in lubricant management. The implementation of a comprehensive lubrication management plan, featuring synthetic lubricants and predictive maintenance techniques, led to significant operational improvements. The plant realized a reduction in lubricant inventory and streamlined its procurement processes. This collaboration enhanced the plant’s efficiency and contributed to a more sustainable and cost-effective operation.
For your toughest operational challenges, contact the AMSOIL Industrial team.