Overgreasing causes bearings to run hot, which reduces grease life, according to Chris Decker, a grease formulator for ExxonMobile.

In an informational video (below), Decker highlights infrared images to show how hot bearings can run with too much grease.

Of course, undergreasing also creates problems, including bearing failure.

To accurately determine regreasing schedules, Decker says equipment managers should consult their OEMs or operator manuals. In the absence of that, managers can work with their grease supplier to evaluate five factors:

1.Equipment type

2.Grease type

3.External contaminants

4.Environmental and operating temperatures

5.Operating speeds and loads