For companies that rely heavily on mechanical systems, having personnel certified in lubrication best practices can make a big difference in avoiding downtime and costly repairs. Nowadays, this is why more plant managers and maintenance leaders encourage their workers to enroll in a lubrication certification course.
So, what exactly does a lubrication certification program entail? Most courses provide a solid grounding in lubrication fundamentals, different industrial lubricants, and how to correctly select, apply, monitor, and maintain lubricants. Students learn the science behind lubrication and why proper techniques matter. Key topics in these seminars usually include:
- Lubricant functions – reducing friction, dissipating heat, protecting against corrosion
- Base oil groups – synthetics, mineral oils, bio-based oils
- Additives – properties and how they enhance lubricant performance
- Greases – composition, applications, re-lubrication intervals
- Choosing the correct lubricant viscosity for equipment and ambient conditions
- Contamination control and oil analysis
- Storage and handling best practices
- Application methods – grease guns, oilers, spray systems
- Lubrication program management
On top of this knowledge-based coursework, most lubrication certification courses require their trainees to demonstrate hands-on competency in lubricant selection, sampling, inspection, change-outs, re-greasing, and record-keeping. Some culminate in a certification exam.
For companies, having staff complete this training pays dividends through:
- Improved machinery reliability and uptime
- Reduced maintenance repairs and longer machine life
- Early identification of lubrication-related problems before they cause failures
- More consistent and correct lubrication work across all shifts
- Better in-house expertise for setting up and overseeing lubrication PM programs
- Compliance with equipment warranty and OEM lubrication requirements
For technicians and mechanics, becoming certified in lubrication gives them:
- A strong understanding of the “why” behind proper lubrication practices
- Greater pride and confidence in their work
- Valuable skills that make them more promotable
- Opportunities to take on lubrication PM program coordination roles
The best lubrication certification courses are comprehensive while efficiently delivered in 3-5 days. Leading providers like the International Council for Machinery Lubrication offer in-person and online options. For optimal retention, look for courses with hands-on practice and testing. Upon completion, technicians will be certified lubrication specialists.
With a lot of reliance on machinery in today’s workplaces, lubrication is a critical maintenance skill set. Investing in lubrication certification for your team demonstrates a commitment to reliability and operational excellence. For organizations seeking world-class maintenance practices, getting personnel certified in lubrication best practices is a smart first step.
When evaluating lubrication certificate programs, look for courses beyond theory to provide hands-on practice with real-world equipment. Applying knowledge is critical for developing competency. The best programs will give the trainees time to work with lubrication tasks such as:
- Inspecting and assessing the condition of lubricants in service
- Selecting the proper lubricants by reading spec sheets and working with lubricant suppliers
- Operating standard lubrication tools like pneumatic pumps, grease guns, oil dispensers, ultrasonic baths, particle counters, etc.
- Performing oil changes, re-greasing, and flushing on bearings, gears, chains, slides
- Taking oil samples and interpreting oil analysis reports
- Identifying types of contamination and their causes
- Documenting lubrication PM work and setting up lube schedules
- Applying correct sealants, anti-seize compounds, solvents
- Racking and filtering lubricants
- Identifying lubrication-related issues through inspections
- Communicating with operations, maintenance, and management
Look for courses taught by experienced experts who can share real stories and case studies. Certification exams should thoroughly test across all topics covered rather than just being a rubber stamp.
The professionals who earn lubrication certification will gain entry to a global community of tribology experts and access to ongoing training opportunities. The certificate also looks great on a resume when applying for jobs and promotions.
Companies that commit to lubrication certification courses early see the benefits through added productivity and reliability. Equipment runs faster and harder as technology advances, making best-practice lubrication development more critical. Investing in developing lubrication expertise across your maintenance team will pay off.
