Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI) for lubricants is a service where Interflon takes responsibility for your on-site lubricant inventory management, including storage organisation, identification and replenishment. It standardises handling and traceability so technicians can use the right lubricant on the right asset every time. VMI is a building block within Lubrication as a Service (LaaS®) and can also be implemented as a standalone improvement when lubricant storage is a root cause of reliability or audit issues.

When VMI makes sense

VMI is a good fit for industrial sites where lubricant inventory management has become a source of reliability risk, operational inconsistency or audit exposure. It is commonly used when:

• Multiple lubricants and suppliers have created storage complexity and misapplication risk
• Technicians across shifts apply lubricants inconsistently due to unclear identification
• Unplanned downtime or reduced MTBF can be traced back to lubrication errors or contamination
• Audits require stronger traceability and documented lubricant handling practices
• OEE targets are affected by equipment issues linked to incorrect or degraded lubrication

Why lubricant inventory management affects reliability

Poor lubricant inventory management is one of the most underestimated drivers of avoidable equipment failures. When storage is not organised and traceable, the consequences are measurable.

• The wrong lubricant reaches the wrong asset and accelerates wear

• Contamination enters through open containers or mixed tools

• Stock outs trigger emergency procurement and ad hoc substitutions

• Traceability gaps create compliance exposure and audit risk

Each of these factors increases corrective maintenance workload and reduces MTBF and OEE over time. In food and beverage environments, the risks are compounded by hygiene requirements and the need for documented proof of correct lubricant use under BRCGS, IFS and similar audit standards. In heavy industry and other process environments, the same principles apply. Consistent lubricant inventory management is a prerequisite for reliable asset performance, regardless of sector.

What’s included in Interflon VMI

Interflon VMI combines practical lubricant inventory management controls with routine verification by a Technical Advisor. A typical implementation includes:

• Lubricant consolidation and standardisation: rationalising lubricant types to reduce complexity and misapplication risk
• 5S storage organisation: a structured lubricant room setup with clear locations and clean handling practices. Interflon uses OilSafe storage and dispensing equipment as part of the VMI setup.
• Stock management and replenishment: defined min/max levels to avoid shortages, overstock and urgent procurement
• Batch traceability documentation: records that support audit readiness and consistent reporting
• Technical Advisor oversight: periodic inspection, verification and continuous improvement support

How VMI connects to Lubrication as a Service (LaaS®)

VMI controls storage and inventory. Combined with ILAC® lubrication management software for planning and work instruction traceability, and lubrication automation where it pays back, VMI forms part of a complete LaaS® programme. Each building block can be implemented independently or as part of a broader scope, and starting with lubricant inventory management is often the most visible first step for sites with audit or reliability pressure.