When should oil levels in machinery be checked?

Checking oil levels in machinery is a critical maintenance activity to ensure the proper functioning and longevity of the equipment. The best practice is to check oil levels before starting the equipment. This allows for an assessment of whether the machine has adequate lubricating oil to function properly. Insufficient oil can lead to increased friction, overheating, and ultimately, equipment failure.

While it is important to monitor oil levels regularly and at scheduled intervals to maintain optimal performance, conducting this check prior to starting the equipment ensures safe operation and catches potential issues early. Other intervals, such as after a set running time or only in response to a leak, do not provide the proactive maintenance needed to prevent damage and ensure reliability. Regular checks at intervals are helpful, but the most critical time to ensure the oil level is satisfactory is before any operation begins. This proactive measure guards against potential operational failures and prolongs the life of the machinery.