There are four primary components to precision grease lubrication for bearings:

• Lubricant selection
• Application method
• Volume of lubricant to be delivered
•  Frequency with which it is applied

Many different methods are available for specifying these values, and opinions vary concerning which approach is best. 

For this reason, the best approach may be to use more than one method to develop a strategy that defines default values, which are then fine-tuned based on feedback from visual inspections, operating temperature, ultrasonic instrumentation and other factors. 

Due to the variability of operating conditions and machine design, it may be impossible to be precise without introducing the condition-based component to the formula. Condition-based lubrication should be part of any world-class program, and this subject is gaining interest in the lubrication industry. By acquiring knowledge of the fundamental parameters used to define grease lubrication values and applying the latest technological tools, today’s lubrication engineer can improve the reliability of machinery, increase the efficiency of PM activities and continue to shift the lubrication program to the preferred and fiscally sound proactive strategy.