Which of the following is an indicator of lubrication problems?

Increased equipment temperature is a critical indicator of lubrication problems. Proper lubrication is essential for maintaining a consistent temperature in machinery; it reduces friction and wear, which can lead to heat generation. If there is insufficient lubrication, or if the lubricant is degraded or contaminated, the equipment may experience excessive heat buildup. This increase in temperature can lead to faster degradation of the lubricant, further compounding the lubrication issues. Monitoring temperature is a fundamental aspect of machinery condition monitoring, as elevated temperatures can signify that the lubrication system is not functioning effectively, potentially resulting in equipment failure if not addressed promptly.

In contrast, consistent operational temperatures, absence of vibrations or noise, and stable oil pressure readings typically indicate that the lubrication system is functioning correctly and that the machinery is operating smoothly.