Reliable lubrication of machinery in the food and beverage industry is crucial for smooth production processes. In an industry where hygiene, efficiency, and product quality are top priorities, well-lubricated systems play a pivotal role. In food and beverage processing machinery, lubricants account for 2–3% of operating costs. However, 40–60% of maintenance costs are due to poor lubrication. These figures highlight the importance of reliable lubrication and proper lubrication practices. That's why we're not just talking about lubrication, but also about lubrication management as an essential component of machine operation and maintenance. The requirements for lubricants in this industry are diverse. They must not only support the proper functioning of the machinery but also comply with strict food-safety regulations. Contamination, high temperatures, and humidity pose challenges that must be overcome with the right lubrication. This article provides suggested solutions that highlight the benefits of automatic lubrication systems, the improvement of food-safe lubrication, and the contribution to environmental sustainability. Discover how a professional lubrication solution can boost your success.
The Importance of Good Lubrication
When dust, dirt, and water penetrate critical machine components, they form a "grinding mass" that significantly shortens component life. Maintaining an adequate lubricating film is key to reducing wear and downtime. Regular lubrication effectively reduces friction and keeps bearings and bushings virtually free of penetrating contaminants. As a manufacturer of ball and roller bearings, we often observe that the importance of reliable machine lubrication is underestimated.
Did you know?
Automatic lubrication reduces lubricant consumption worldwide by around 200,000 tons per year, simply by avoiding manual overlubrication. This corresponds to a CO2 reduction of approximately 300,000 tons.
Manual and Semi-Automatic Lubrication
Manual Lubrication
Manual lubrication of machinery in food and beverage production is an important maintenance activity, where various components are supplied with lubricant by hand using tools such as manual or electric grease guns. This is the simplest, but also the most time-consuming, method of implementing lubrication.
SKF Offer
- Grease Nipples
- Standard Hand Grease Guns
- One-Hand Grease Guns
- Battery-Operated Grease Guns
Features
- Low investment costs
- Limited number of required parts
- No installation effort
- Low lubrication reliability
- High maintenance effort
Semi-Automatic Lubrication
A centralized approach can be achieved by connecting multiple lubrication points to lubricant distributors, leaving only one manual lubrication point at the distributor inlet for manual lubrication tools. This represents an advanced, time-saving approach to machine lubrication while allowing precise adjustment of the dosage for each lubrication point.
SKF Offering
- Grease Guns
- Lube Nipples
- Fittings and Accessories
- Lubrication Hoses and Tubes
- Progressive Distributors
- Adjustable Progressive Distributors
Features
- Moderate investment costs
- Limited number of required parts
- Limited installation complexity
- Moderate lubrication reliability
- Limited maintenance requirements
Recommended and market-proven solutions
TLGB 1886-E
The battery-powered TLGB 1886-E grease gun has a number of features that make it the tool of choice for difficult lubrication tasks. The dual-speed design allows all lubrication points to be supplied with a single tool, reliably protecting your equipment from breakdowns and costly repairs. In the high speed setting, the tool can quickly deliver large quantities of grease when needed, while the low speed setting offers a discharge pressure of up to 700 bar.
Features and Benefits
- Heavy-duty device for frequent use
- A built-in LED illuminates the work area
- LED indicators indicate suction problems, empty cartridges, and clogged connections.
- Air pockets in the grease gun can be easily eliminated using the bleed valve
SSV
SSV are progressive distributors with a block design that reliably divide the incoming lubricant into preset individual streams. SSVs are suitable for use with high backpressures and over a wide temperature range. The maximum operating pressure is 350 bar. SSV lubricant distributors are available with 6 to 22 outlets. Monitoring is possible using an indicator pin for visual system monitoring or a piston detector for electrical system monitoring.
Features and Benefits
- For up to 22 outlets
- High operating pressure
- Available in various materials: steel and stainless steel 1.4571 (AISI 316Ti) and 1.4305 (AISI 303)
- Precise lubricant metering
- Unique crossporting technology
Fully automatic lubrication systems
Automatic lubrication means a 100% reduction in manual lubrication activities. This is achieved by connecting all lubrication points via a system consisting of distributors, lubrication lines, and fittings with a central pump unit including a lubricant reservoir. This system can be connected to an internal or external control system, enabling precise and reliable automatic machine lubrication. You will receive advance warning when the reservoir level is low.
SKF Offer
- Electrically, pneumatically, or hydraulically driven lubrication pumps
- Control and monitoring devices
- Lubricant distributors
- Lubrication lines and fittings
Features
- Virtually maintenance-free
- High lubrication reliability - lubrication while the machine is running
- Adjustable lubrication cycles
- Monitoring options - automatic reservoir level control including low-level alarm
Recommended and market-proven solutions
EDL1
The EDL1 is an innovative metering and pressure booster pump of outstanding simplicity. It was developed to increase the inlet pressure from a minimum of 2 bar to a maximum of 280 bar. In conjunction with progressive distributors, the EDL1 is suitable for supplying sectional lubrication systems on extensive machines with different lubrication requirements at different distances. Since the lubricant is supplied from a supply pump or pressurized cartridge, the device can be used flexibly and independently, even in remote locations.
Features and Benefits
- Easy to Use
- IP 65 Protection
- Integrated control board for pulse- and time-dependent lubrication
- Potential-free contacts for fault reporting
CLK
The CLK airless oil injection system is a simple, reliable, and easy-to-install solution for chain lubrication in industrial conveyor systems. The automatic system consists of a central unit with a reservoir, a volumetric pump, and injection nozzles for dispensing a precisely metered amount of lubricant. No system component is in mechanical contact with the chain. This eliminates the risk of wear and dirt accumulation. All components are corrosion-resistant. The nozzles and lines are suitable for high temperatures (200°C / 400°F).
Features and Benefits
- Reliable chain lubrication through the use of an inductive sensor
- Compact solution including pump, reservoir, control unit, lines, fittings, and nozzles
Networked automated lubrication systems
Connected or intelligent lubrication systems provide real-time information on all machine lubrication data. You have access to lubrication-related statistics on lubricant consumption or lubrication cycles. This allows you to intelligently compare all collected machine data to optimize machine performance and availability.
Features
- Virtually maintenance-free
- High lubrication reliability – lubrication while the machine is running
- Adjustable lubrication cycles
- Monitoring options – automatic reservoir level control including low-level alarm
- Data acquisition and lubrication-related statistics
- Remote operation and monitoring
SKF offering
SKF eLube is a new generation of connected automatic lubrication solutions – a complete range of intelligent and user-friendly components that you can combine into a system that best meets your needs. SKF eLube can help you identify problems at a glance, track machine health data, provide early warning of potential failures, and take preventative measures. Connect eLube to the cloud and gain insights into machine performance based on data from both your lubrication system and bearings. SKF eLube products are compact, purpose-built, and easy to integrate into your application.
Smart System Monitoring
CLP Smart
Features and Benefits
- Compact lubrication pump for small progressive grease lubrication systems
- Three operating modes (time-controlled, counter-controlled, and cycle-controlled)
- Remote monitoring, control, and adjustment with the SKF eLube app
P253 Smart
Features and Benefits
- Powerful P253 Smart lubrication pump with up to three pump elements and various reservoir sizes
- For oil and grease applications
- Remote monitoring, control, and adjustment with the SKF eLube app
SKF eLube app
Using the SKF eLube app, users can wirelessly determine the fluid level and pump functions. There's no need to stop the machine or physically access the pump to check the fluid level, for example. This can save time and also reduce the risk of accidents. Wireless access to pump information allows problems – such as a clogged line or low fluid level – to be identified very quickly. Corrective measures can then be taken immediately to prevent bearing damage.
Features and Benefits
- Simple and intuitive pump configuration
- Sharing settings via email and WhatsApp
- Clear visual display of operating status
Grain, spice, or meat mills – up to 16 lubrication points*
For example, to gently grind grain with roller mills, a solid power transmission from the drive via the gearbox to the grinding mechanism is required. To prevent these machines from failing due to bearing damage, all mechanical components involved must be optimally supported and the bearings reliably lubricated. SKF bearings and lubrication systems contribute to even greater reliability in roller mills by reducing friction and wear. Furthermore, good lubrication significantly saves energy and increases the service life of the entire machine.
Components Requiring Reliable Lubrication
- Drive and Shaft Bearings
- Conveyor Bearings
Industrial Extruders and Pasta Machines - Up to 25 Lubrication Points*
Extrusion is a versatile and efficient food processing technology. Continuously forcing the viscous to solid mass through an orifice or nozzle with a defined shape requires considerable force, making reliable machine components essential. The thrust required for this is generated mechanically, for example, by a moving piston or the rotation of conveyor screws, which places special demands on bearings and bearing lubrication. SKF lubrication solutions support the reliability of extruders by reducing wear and downtime and extending bearing life.
Components Requiring Reliable Lubrication
- Die and Conveyor Screw Bearings
- Double Screw Bearings
- Planetary Roller Bearings
- Drive Shaft Bearings
- Linear Guides
- Piston Bearings
Decanters, Centrifuges, and Filter Press - Up to 20 Lubrication Points*
Continuous solids separation using centrifugal force in the decanter requires not only a reliable drive, but also optimal power transmission and solid main shaft bearings. Fluids, as well as dust and dirt, place significant stress on these components, quickly leading to failures and downtime. The right SKF bearings, seals, and lubrication systems offer a solution to these problems and ensure optimal performance and service life of the entire machine. If that's not enough, SKF also offers filter and purification systems such as the RecondOil Box for gear oils.
Components requiring reliable lubrication
- Drive and shaft bearings
- Gears and gearboxes
Steam cookers, heaters, and pasteurizers - up to 40 lubrication points*
Industrial cooking and pasteurization machines are critical in the food industry to ensure the safety and shelf life of products such as milk, mixed drinks, and more. These machines require reliable lubrication to ensure proper function and longevity. Other benefits of lubrication include: reduced friction, improved heat dissipation, improved corrosion protection, extended machine life, and increased efficiency.
Components requiring reliable lubrication:
- Drive and drive shaft bearings
- Pumps and valve bearings
- Gears and gearboxes
- Conveyor bearings
- Chains
Tunnel kilns, dryers, and belt roasters - up to 25 lubrication points*
These machines require lubrication to operate efficiently and reliably. It's not just about reducing friction losses, but also about increasing efficiency by reducing unplanned downtime, maintaining food safety, and improving worker safety. Many lubrication points, such as those in tunnel kilns, dryers, and roasters, are inaccessible during operation and are therefore easily overlooked during recurring maintenance. Automatic lubrication systems, however, supply all points with lubricant while the plant is in full production mode.
Components Requiring Reliable Lubrication
- Door Mechanisms, Slides, or Flaps
- Gears and Gears
- Drive Shaft Bearings
- Conveyor Bearings
- Fan Bearings
- Chains
Tunnel Freezers and Cooling Towers - Up to 30 Lubrication Points*
Sophisticated machinery and equipment are required to cool food efficiently and gently, thus preserving product quality and shelf life. In addition to machine size, energy consumption and efficiency are increasingly playing a decisive role in profitability. Energy losses due to unnecessary friction and downtime caused by defective bearings and chains are a nightmare for operators. SKF lubrication for chains and bearings supports the reliable operation of these machines and increases their service life.
Components Requiring Reliable Lubrication
- Drive and Drive Shaft Bearings
- Conveyor Belt Bearings
- Pump Bearings
- Fan Bearings
- Chains
Thermoforming Machines - Up to 50 Lubrication Points*
Industrial thermoforming machines are essential tools that contribute to efficient, reliable, and customized packaging solutions for the food industry and beyond. These machines are designed for hygiene, making them easy to clean and meeting food safety requirements. Reliable lubrication improves the performance of the thermoforming machine, extends component life, and contributes to consistently high-quality production. Well-lubricated bearings, gears, and chains are subject to less wear.
Components Requiring Reliable Lubrication
- Drive Shaft Bearings
- Gears and Gearboxes
- Linear Guides
- Conveyor Bearings
- Chains
Industrial Roller Conveyors and Belt Conveyors - Up to 1,000 Lubrication Points*
Conveyors are a critical component of many food and beverage production processes. They are installed between different production steps. Due to hygiene regulations, they are regularly cleaned – often with high-pressure cleaners. However, water, steam, and dirt lead to accelerated corrosion and wear. Lubrication counteracts these negative effects, significantly reducing friction and corrosion, saving energy, extending the life of bearings, belts, and chains, and minimizing wear. Finally, food-grade lubricants help maintain high hygiene standards.
Components requiring reliable lubrication
- Drive motors and gearboxes
- Guides and sliding surfaces
- Drive and shaft bearings
- Chains
- Rollers
Washing and dishwashing machines - up to 100 lubrication points*
Washing machines and dishwashers are an essential part of many food and beverage processes, providing a quick and efficient way to clean packaging and products. These machines are subject to significant wear and tear, and lubrication is a critical part of their maintenance to ensure continuous operation. Automated lubrication systems have the potential to increase machine availability. These systems deliver the right amount of lubricant at the right intervals, minimizing friction and wear while optimizing the service life of bearings and machinery.
Components requiring reliable lubrication
- Guides and sliding surfaces
- Drive and shaft bearings
- Rollers, belts, and chains
- Gears and gearboxes
- Worm gear bearings
- Piston bearings
Industrial filling machines - up to 50 lubrication points*
Whether for beer, juice, soup, or dairy products, filling machines are at the heart of countless bottling plants in food and beverage production. Centralized, automated lubrication systems (ALS) have the potential to increase machine availability. Automatic lubrication of rotating bearings also improves lubricant distribution. These systems deliver the correct amount of lubricant at the correct intervals, minimize friction and wear, and optimize the service life of bearings and machinery.
Components requiring reliable lubrication
- Guides and sliding surfaces
- Drive and shaft bearings
- Rollers, belts, and chains
- Gears and gearboxes
- Worm gear bearings
- Piston bearings
Industrial labeling machines - up to 50 lubrication points*
Industrial labeling machines play a critical role in various manufacturing areas, ensuring product identification and traceability. The importance of these machines is considerable, as a labeling machine stoppage can lead to a complete shutdown of the production process. To maintain peak performance and extend service life, correct lubrication is essential. Automatic lubrication systems offer numerous benefits, including improved efficiency, reduced downtime, cost savings, and an extended equipment lifecycle.
Components Requiring Reliable Lubrication
- Guides and Sliding Surfaces
- Drive and Shaft Bearings
- Rollers, Belts, and Chains
- Gears and Gears
- Worm Gear Bearings
- Chains
Packaging and Palletizing Machines - Up to 60 Lubrication Points*
There is a growing need for automation in industrial packaging. Packaging involves many different sub-processes. Flexibility and the ability to quickly adapt a machine to different package sizes and shapes makes these machines little superstars of automation. It's no wonder that lubrication, especially automatic lubrication systems, must also offer all the benefits of automation here, including improved efficiency, reduced downtime, cost savings, and a longer machine lifespan. Lubrication also increases performance and reduces friction and wear.
Components Requiring Reliable Lubrication
- Linear Guides and Chains
- Drive and Shaft Bearings
- Belt Drive Bearings
- Elevator Chains
- Gears
Tools to Support Predictive Maintenance
Experienced maintenance technicians know and appreciate the benefits of reliable tools. What matters is that a solution has proven itself in practice. Lubrication tools from SKF and Lincoln for the food and beverage industry equip maintenance teams with highly reliable solutions that enable more efficient work.
A broad portfolio awaits you to discover
- Greases and chain oils in various containers
- Grease nipples, couplings, and fittings
- High-pressure hoses and plastic pipes
- Hose reels for various lengths and diameters
- Manual and battery-operated grease guns
- Refill and lubricant drum pumps
Selected solutions for maintenance and service teams
Mobile drum pumps
A comprehensive range of manually and pneumatically operated drum grease pumps for mounting on standard drums of 18, 50, and 180 kg. Direct connection to lubrication points is possible, as is use in centralized grease lubrication systems. SKF drum pumps for grease filling operate at a maximum pressure of 420 or 500 bar. Tested and approved for SKF greases. Easy to connect and ready for immediate use thanks to the included accessories. A 3,500 mm hose is also included.
Features and Benefits
- Comprehensive range: Pumps for drums of 18, 50, and 180 kg
- High pressure: max. 500 bar
- Easy to connect: All necessary accessories including 3.50 m of hose
Ultrasonic Lubrication Tester
Designed for maintenance technicians, the TLGU 10 uses ultrasonic technology to improve manual relubrication. The intuitive device connects to a grease gun and helps maintenance personnel relubricate rolling bearings with the exact amount of lubricant. The device effectively prevents over- and under-lubrication and can help extend bearing life. The TLGU 10 is suitable for a wide range of bearing applications (electric motors, pumps, compressors, conveyor systems, and others).
Features and Benefits
- Easy to use – The combination of audible signals and visual indicators helps technicians relubricate with the utmost accuracy.
- Saves costs – Increased lubrication accuracy improves machine reliability.
Discover the benefits of lubrication management.
Lubrication management plays a critical role in the reliability and efficiency of machinery and equipment. It is a proactive maintenance strategy that, when implemented correctly, can help prevent failures, reduce downtime, lower maintenance costs, and extend equipment life. Lubrication involves the systematic application and control of lubricant to reduce friction, heat, and wear between moving parts, ultimately extending the lifespan of machines and equipment and achieving optimal performance. With a well-thought-out lubrication management approach, we can properly organize resources, effectively improve reliability, reduce inefficiencies and costs, and enhance safety and environmental compliance. To better understand this complex topic, we recommend tracking the lubricant throughout its entire service life. We call this the lubricant lifecycle. For further insight into the world of lubrication, contact our experts.
* These are average values. The exact number of lubrication points varies depending on the manufacturer and model.