Other factors such as improper installation and excessive operational stress can contribute to failure. However, while the exact numbers vary by study, improper lubrication is the major cause of all bearing failures, with contamination closely linked as a secondary effect.

Minimum Quantity Lubrication (MQL)

MQL is a lubrication technique in which both the quantity and timing of lubricant delivery are precisely calculated and controlled to optimize bearing longevity and performance, rather than relying on irregular or miscalculated greasing practices.

When lubrication quantity and timing are not properly calculated or coordinated, as is often the case with hand greasing, electrochemical single-point lubricators (SPLs), or non-MQL electromechanical SPLs, these traditional greasing methods can lead to multiple failure modes.

• Large grease volumes applied at long intervals often cause initial over-greasing, followed by lubrication starvation before the next application. As a simple analogy, flood greasing is comparable to consuming a week’s worth of water in one sitting and then going without, which is neither effective nor sustainable.
• Large grease volumes applied at short intervals result in continuous over-greasing.
• Small grease volumes applied at short or long intervals results in continuous under-greasing.

In contrast, MQL delivers small, consistent amounts of lubricant at calculated intervals, maintaining a stable and effective lubrication film throughout the bearing’s operating cycle.

Lubrication Quantity × Interval → Outcome

Lubrication Method vs Operating Condition

Remove the Guesswork from Bearing Lubrication

Easylube’s MQL-enabled SPLs with configurable grease fill quantities bridges the gap between MQL and routine maintenance by aligning lubrication delivery with both bearing demand and maintenance routines. This eliminates over- and under-greasing, reduces waste at changeout, and minimises environmental risk, such as excess grease contaminating the surrounding area.

A robust maintenance program, whether corrective, preventive, or predictive, requires skilled and knowledgeable personnel to carry out lubrication-related activities. To achieve optimal reliability and maximise the benefits of a lubrication program, several factors must be considered, including the well-known Five “R”s of Lubrication:

• The Right Lubricant
• In the Right Volume
• At the Right Point
• With the Right Method
• At the Right Interval

One Complete Solution ... Easylube®

The Easylube single-point Nexus lubricator is a maintenance-free, cost-effective, and easy-to-operate device specifically designed for MQL formulations. Its reliable dispensing control and straightforward operation are earning it a strong reputation in the market. The system helps ensure bearings remain in optimal working condition, even in harsh environments, demanding operating conditions, and varying weather situations.

1. Using OEM specifications as a baseline, the LINK software enables the calculation of MQL requirements based on each bearing’s operating conditions. The dispense period of the Easylube single-point automatic lubricator is then configured according to the bearing-specific MQL formulation.
2. NFC sensors with read/write functionality on Nexus SPLs are used to identify lubrication points for patrol inspection and monitoring. By scanning these sensors with a compatible smart device (such as a mobile phone or tablet), maintenance tasks can be performed directly through the LINK-mobile software. Nexus devices also connect to the Nexus Gateway to relay information bi-directionally between field devices and the LINK Cloud, enabling anywhere-anytime access to critical maintenance information and real-time remote management of Nexus SPLs.
3. Use of approved grease cartridges and certified batteries is also essential to optimise product performance, prevent contamination, and minimise fire and explosion risk.
4. If required, our reseller network can connect you with lubrication specialists who provide advanced grease formulations to maximise performance and extend the life of your equipment.