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Lubrication is the single most important factor in servo press longevity. A well-maintained lubrication system can extend gib and bearing life by 3-5x compared to inadequate lubrication.
## Centralized Lubrication Systems
Most modern servo presses use centralized lubrication (CL) systems that automatically deliver oil to all lubrication points on a timed cycle.
**System components:**
- Reservoir (typically 2-5L capacity)
- Pump (electric or press-driven)
- Distribution manifold
- Metering units (one per lubrication point)
- Pressure switch (confirms delivery)
**Maintenance schedule:**
- Daily: check oil level in reservoir, verify pump cycles during press operation
- Weekly: check pressure switch function ??press should fault if lube pressure not reached
- Monthly: inspect all lube lines for kinks or leaks
- Annually: clean reservoir, replace filter, check metering unit output volumes
## Common Lubrication Faults
**Lube pressure alarm (most common):**
1. Check oil level ??low level is the #1 cause
2. Check pump operation ??listen for pump cycling sound
3. Check pressure switch setpoint ??typically 0.3-0.5 MPa
4. Inspect distribution lines for blockage
**Gib wear despite adequate lube:**
- Check metering unit output ??use graduated cylinder to measure actual delivery
- Verify lube point locations match press manual ??some presses have hidden lube points
- Check oil viscosity ??wrong viscosity oil will not flow through metering units
## Oil Specification
Most servo press manufacturers specify:
- Gib and slide ways: ISO VG 68 or VG 100 way oil (with anti-stick additives)
- Gearbox (if present): ISO VG 220 gear oil
- Bearings: NLGI 2 lithium grease (for grease-lubricated bearings)
**Never mix oil types** ??way oil and gear oil have different additive packages that can react.