How do you determine lubrication interval for a bearing in a PM program?

• A. Follow manufacturer schedule
• B. Adjust intervals based on operating conditions, load, speed, and environment; monitor condition
• C. Lubricate on a fixed calendar every month
• D. Do not lubricate after installation

Answer: (B)

Lubrication intervals should be driven by how the bearing actually experiences service. The best approach is to tailor the interval to real operating conditions—load, speed, temperature, environment, lubrication type, and the level of contamination—and to keep checking the bearing’s condition over time. When you monitor factors such as lubricant cleanliness, temperature rise, and vibration or wear debris, you can adjust the interval: extend it if conditions are mild and the bearing shows stable trends, or shorten it if heat, noise, or contamination indicates faster wear. This dynamic approach uses actual performance data rather than a fixed rule, reducing the risk of both over-lubrication and under-lubrication.

Rigidly following a fixed manufacturer schedule can miss how the machine behaves in your facility, which might lead to unnecessary maintenance or premature failures. Lubricating on a set monthly calendar ignores variation in usage and environment. Not lubricating after installation ignores the initial run-in and protection the lubricant provides during the first period of operation. By continuously monitoring the bearing and adjusting intervals accordingly, you align lubrication needs with real-world conditions and maintain reliability.