As cement producers look to find additional ways of cutting energy costs, different parts of the cement production process are assessed to yield further savings. One such area is equipment lubrication where a comprehensive management programme can not only lead to improved mechanical maintenance but also energy savings. By KB Mathur, Global Technical Services (GTS), India.

Reducing power usage at a cement plant is essential when trying to lower production costs and a reliable lubrication programme can help with this goal. During the production process, energy is used to move the equipment and to overcome friction. Good lubrication reduces friction between the moving surfaces and therefore helps lower the amount of energy needed in the process.