B&C Technologies IM Series Industrial Ironer - Manual (Page 84)

6.1.2 Storage
Indoor Storage – Pails, drums and totes must be stored in a clean and dry location. Storage tem-
peratures should remain moderate at all times. Lubricants in storage should be located away from
all types of industrial contamination including dust and humidity. Bungs must be kept tight at all
times and drum covers should be used whenever drums are stored in the upright position (bungs
at 3 and 9 o’clock positions). Ideally, lubricants are stored in the horizontal position on proper
storage racks allowing the containers to be rotated and used on a first-in, first-out basis
Outdoor Storage – While indoor storage is recommended, this is not always possible due to en-
vironmental, financial or space constraints. If lubricants must be stored outdoors, track lubricant
consumption carefully and replenish inventories ”just-in-time” to minimize exposure to adverse
conditions. If lubricants must be stored outside, shelter them from rain, snow and other elements.
Lay drums on their sides with the bungs in a horizontal (3 and 9 o’clock) position below the lubri-
cant level. This will greatly reduce the risk of the seals drying out and the ingestion of moisture
caused by breathing. If the drums must be placed upright in outdoor storage, employ drum covers
or tilt drums to drain the moisture that gathers on the top around the bungs.
Opened containers – Once the seal is broken and the container is put into use, care must be taken
to ensure control over contamination ingress. If equipped with a proper pressure relief, bulk tanks
should use filter breathers to control contamination ingestion. Drums and pails should be capped
when not in use. If your drums are frequently used, bung breather filters may be your best solu-
tion.
6.1.3 Eliminate Confusion with Proper Labeling
Lubricant Identification – Two common consequences of lubricant mismanagement are cross con-
tamination and lubricant confusion. All drums must be clearly labeled and stenciled to ensure
proper product identification. Avoid using labeling methods that are not legible or may wear out
over time. Take extra care in the labeling of containers that must be stored outdoors since the
elements may damage the label. Color coding labels simplifies the process, reducing the risk of
misapplication. If a color coding system is employed, be sure alpha or numeric information is also
present to account for color blindness.
6.1.4 Clean Delivery
Even when taking the best care possible to store lubricants, they are subject to contamination in-
gression when filling or topping up systems. Therefore it is absolutely necessary that the lubricant
be filtered with an appropriate filter element prior to entering your equipment. Here are some
lubricant dispensing tips:
• Be sure that the proper transfer equipment is being used for the lubricant being dispensed.
Whether you are topping up your system directly or filling a smaller portable container, be
sure that the lubricant has been filtered.
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