A lubricant can protect a component. A reliability strategy helps protect an operation. The difference between the two is becoming increasingly important as mines look for new ways to improve equipment performance, manage maintenance costs and keep critical assets operating longer.
For many years, lubrication was often viewed primarily as a procurement decision. Select the right product, ensure supply continuity and keep equipment serviced according to schedule.
While those fundamentals remain important, the conversation has evolved.
Mining companies today are placing greater emphasis on equipment reliability, maintenance planning and risk management. As a result, lubrication is increasingly being evaluated not only on product performance, but on the role it plays in supporting broader operational objectives.
According to Dave Gons, National Manager Mining at FUCHS LUBRICANTS SOUTH AFRICA and Regional Mining Manager for Sub-Saharan Africa, this shift is changing how mining operations engage with lubrication suppliers.
