By Jim Fitch
Practicing Oil Analysis Magazine
Though typically treated as a commodity by many, the lubricant is a vital component of the machine. For many organizations, the quality of lubrication is the single greatest factor that influences machinery reliability and productivity. Sure, without any lubrication, the machine won’t run. But the quality of lubrication also affects machine reliability and efficient operation in less obvious ways. Many of today’s lubricant suppliers offer an a la carte program of goods and services. Some offer full service, while others serve niche-specific markets, each with varying value propositions. There are many differentiating factors among lubricant suppliers. For this reason, matching the product/services mix to real applications and business needs is the challenge at hand.