Can't see the forest for the trees?
Five questions that lead to efficient inventory management of your lubricants
The assortment of lubricants used within a company typically grows over time. A new machine requires a new lubricant, a new maintenance manager may have different preferences, or an alternative lubricant may be ordered in hopes of solving a problem. As a result, the variety of lubricants increases. And you don’t want to throw away anything that can still be used, so you store it "somewhere" in the warehouse.
While it's good to be conservative with lubricants, it doesn't mean that companies should stockpile as many different lubricants as possible in order to always have a "good solution on hand." On the contrary, keeping a large number of different lubricants in stock comes with several disadvantages and associated costs:
- It increases the likelihood of using the wrong lubricant when a maintenance worker can't see the forest for the trees.
- It requires more space in the warehouse since each lubricant needs its designated spot.
- It raises logistics costs related to ordering, receiving, storing, and possibly disposing of the lubricants.
- Due to the low usage of each product, smaller quantities will be ordered at often higher costs per product.
- It increases the chance that the lubricant won't be used up before reaching its expiration date, resulting in waste.
By considering the following five questions, you can assess whether you can reduce the number of different lubricants or lower the logistics costs in another way.
1. Which lubricants are recommended by the OEM?
Every (production) machine is delivered with a manual that specifies one or more lubricants that the machine "must" be lubricated with. These manuals often include clauses stating that the warranty is void if the user fails to use lubricants with equivalent specifications.
Check if you already have lubricants in use that are compatible with this machine. Some manufacturers rename their products every two years, which may result in unnecessary new supplies.
2. What NSF classification do your lubricants have?
An NSF classification applies to greases used in the food industry. H1 variants may occasionally come into contact with food, while H2 variants can be used in areas where food is processed but should not come into direct contact with it.
Even for companies that do not produce food, it can be useful to use lubricants with these classifications. Consider companies with kitchens or company cafeterias where HACCP guidelines also apply. There is always a possibility that the lubricant may come into contact with prepared or unprepared food in such locations.
3. What is the expiration date of your lubricants?
Once you have selected the appropriate type of lubricant, not all decisions have been made. Companies often opt for the cheapest product assuming that when the composition is similar to that of a more expensive product, its performance will be equivalent. Aside from the question whether this is true, there are other important criteria to consider during the selection process.
It is wise to also consider the expiration date and lifespan of the lubricant. If these are short, there is a chance you will have to dispose of the product at some point without having used it. A good example of ‘penny wise, pound foolish’. It is better to choose a slightly more expensive product that has a longer shelf life in the warehouse.
4. How many "special" lubricants do you have in stock?
One of the measures that can have a significant impact on your logistics costs is an analysis of the number of different lubricants. At Interflon, a rule of thumb is that if a warehouse has more than three brands of lubricants, there is almost a 100% chance that the number can be reduced. This significantly lightens the logistical chain.
Interflon can assist in conducting the analysis and determining alternatives. Our technical advisors not only have expertise but also practical experience. Moreover, our range of lubricants is exceptionally wide, providing an optimal solution for practically every lubrication challenge, including food-grade, halal, kosher, dielectric, or water-resistant products.
5. Are your lubricants stored correctly?
Lubricant storage is often overlooked but is of great importance for cost control. To maximize the lifespan of lubricants in the warehouse, it is necessary to store the products under the proper environmental conditions.
This includes maintaining a constant temperature and humidity level. It is also important to reseal the packaging when a portion of the lubricant has been used. In some cases, special cabinets are required for responsible storage. While that may involve an investment, the costs are much higher if something goes wrong and the result is environmental pollution or a fire.
More information
Do you want to reduce your logistics costs or do you have any questions? Feel free to contact us. Our Technical Advisors are active worldwide and are happy to provide assistance and advice!
