I know this is an old thread, but I’m surprised no one mentioned:
When we talk machine lubrication, it’s really 3 separate functions we’re talking about:
1) Lubricity to improve function and reduce wear. For this, a very small qty of oil is required.
2) Preventing oxidation/corrosion. Again, pretty small amounts of oil will go a long way. The down side is oil attracts dust (really provides it with a foothold) which can be corrosive. But we are generally better with it than without. There are other treatments like Boelube that protect surfaces without attracting dust. Best in my opinion, is a frequent wipe with an oily lint free cloth. That isn’t just renewing the oil film, but wiping away contaminants it may have attracted.
3) Third is using the oil system (like a grease system) to force out particles and contaminants. For this you need pressure and volume. Wipers can prevent the big stuff from getting in. The pressurized oil system, should be pushing the small stuff out.
So my answer is, if you are asking about lubricity or corrosion prevention, more wiping and small amounts of oil are better. I'd also say, if you have a pressurized oil delivery system like the old Bridgeport's had, that should be used at the start of your workday, following the oily rag wipe down. I end my workday like that too. Wipe down, then one pump. I think flooding a surface because more is better isn't maybe super helpful. It doesn't address the third function.
When we talk machine lubrication, it’s really 3 separate functions we’re talking about:
1) Lubricity to improve function and reduce wear. For this, a very small qty of oil is required.
2) Preventing oxidation/corrosion. Again, pretty small amounts of oil will go a long way. The down side is oil attracts dust (really provides it with a foothold) which can be corrosive. But we are generally better with it than without. There are other treatments like Boelube that protect surfaces without attracting dust. Best in my opinion, is a frequent wipe with an oily lint free cloth. That isn’t just renewing the oil film, but wiping away contaminants it may have attracted.
3) Third is using the oil system (like a grease system) to force out particles and contaminants. For this you need pressure and volume. Wipers can prevent the big stuff from getting in. The pressurized oil system, should be pushing the small stuff out.
So my answer is, if you are asking about lubricity or corrosion prevention, more wiping and small amounts of oil are better. I'd also say, if you have a pressurized oil delivery system like the old Bridgeport's had, that should be used at the start of your workday, following the oily rag wipe down. I end my workday like that too. Wipe down, then one pump. I think flooding a surface because more is better isn't maybe super helpful. It doesn't address the third function.
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