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 (l/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 (l/fat; viscosity/NLGI)
- monitoring depth (sensors, data logging)
- Assembly/commissioning requirements
ROI is 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.
l or fat
Application specific: high speed/cooling → l; stable film/rough → fat.