Total Lubrication Partnership (TLP) is the Bel-Ray program that provides the communication framework for the customer, distributor, and Bel-Ray Company. Bel-Ray developed the TLP program to systematically manage lubrication support to customers. By using a partnership approach, Bel-Ray works with customers and distributors to document all aspects of support that the customer receives. All elements of work that are performed by representatives of the distributor and Bel-Ray are documented using Bel-Ray’s VISION work order system. The data gathered by using the work orders is employed in generating reports that are presented to the distributor and to the customer. Every six months, Bel-Ray meets with the customer and distributor to discuss the TLP program and the lubrication support the customer receives. The TLP program ensures continuous interaction between partners in a sustained effort to reduce costs and improve equipment performance.

Based on the Customer’s requirements, detailed reports can be provided on a predetermined schedule. With Bel-Ray’s VISION database, report formatting can be personalized for each customer. Some of the current reports include machine surveys, current versus proposed lubricant, consumption per hour, cost per hour, oil analysis, element trending, machine condition, work order history, machine inspection and gear wear monitoring.

The Bel-Ray Prolube Oil Analysis system is a combination of database management and oil analysis testing. Trending of representative oil samples is one of the best ways to prevent damage caused to machinery by contamination or lubricants that do not provide the correct lubrication properties. Identifying the lubrication condition through oil analysis and the correction of problems will extend the life of the customer’s equipment and will reduce operating costs. Bel-Ray distributors work with mine personnel to obtain oil samples and submit them to Bel-Ray for analysis. After the oil analysis is completed by the lab, the data is supplied to the Prolube Administrator for review. A Prolube report is generated and based on the condition of the oil the report is classified as Normal, Caution, or Critical. A brief sample comment is included at the end of the sample report suggesting appropriate action. The Prolube report is sent to the distributor who provides the report to the customer.

Bel-Ray Mining Technicians use specific inspection criteria for each model of machine that they inspect. All aspects of each area of the machine to be inspected are identified. The condition of each aspect of each area is determined and recorded. Recommendations are documented and photos of the conditions are taken. The Technician inspects points of lubricant application and provides recommendations if the application is inadequate or excessive. All components of the lubrication supply system are inspected and any suspect components are reported. The Inspection results are reported to the maintenance supervisor before the technician leaves the mine site. The inspection report is sent to the designated mine representatives within twenty-four hours.

Bel-Ray Mining Technicians use specific inspection criteria for each model of machine that they inspect. All aspects of each area of the machine to be inspected are identified. The condition of each aspect of each area is determined and recorded. Recommendations are documented and photos of the conditions are taken. The Technician inspects points of lubricant application and provides recommendations if the application is inadequate or excessive. All components of the lubrication supply system are inspected and any suspect components are reported. The Inspection results are reported to the maintenance supervisor before the technician leaves the mine site. The inspection report is sent to the designated mine representatives within twenty-four hours.

Bel-Ray Mining Division Representatives conduct in-depth equipment site surveys. The survey documents all equipment, lubricants, and conditions. The survey also identifies areas where Bel-Ray products can extend component life and reduce operating costs. Upon completion of the survey, a survey report is provided that contains recommendations for product consolidation and the most appropriate Bel-Ray performance lubricants chosen for each machine surveyed. Bel-Ray Representatives will also inspect current lube storage and handling procedures and make recommendations for improvement where applicable.