Central lubrication system: structure, costs & ROI
One Central lubrication system supplies many lubrication points automatically with defined quantities and intervals. This reduces downtimes, saves lubricant and reduces manual maintenance.
Structure (Typical)
- Pump unit with container (oil/grease), control/timer
- Distributor: single/dual line or progressive
- Lines/fittings suitable for the medium
- Sensors: pressure, stroke (progressive), optional flow/temperature
- Connection to PLC/HMI for reports/trends
Cost factors
- Number of lubrication points & line lengths
- Medium & temperature window (oil/fat; viscosity/NLGI)
- Monitoring depth (sensors, data logging)
- Assembly/commissioning requirements
ROI that's how you calculate it
Simplified example (fictitious values):
- Previously: 6 h/month manual lubrication � 2 technicians � 12 h; Downtime costs: ��400/h � ��4,800/month
- Afterward: 1 h/month visual inspection � ��400; Downtime reduced to 1 hour � ��400
- Savings/month: (4,800 �� 800) = ��4,000 plus lubricant savings
- Invest: e.g. B. ��20,000 (depending on scope)
- Payback: 20,000 / 4,000 = ~5 months
Actual values vary; We calculate the ROI based on your actual data.
Planning checklist
- Collect points & quantities (per cycle/shift)
- Select distribution principle (single/dual line vs. progressive)
- Define sensors/signals (OK/warning/alarm)
- Lubricant selection (H1 if required)
Further: Basics � Components: Pumps & aggregates, Distributor � Advice & offer
FAQ
How long does a system last
With correct design and maintenance, many years; Wear parts can be easily replaced.
Oil or fat
Application specific: high speed/cooling � oil; stable film/rough � fat.