Automatic lubrication of mobile machines at critical points is designed to ensure uninterrupted performance for mining operations, helping to reduce costs, save time and support long‑term sustainability and productivity.

SKF’s Lincoln P203 8 KG progressive systems are engineered to automatically dispense consistent, metered amounts of grease to critical machinery points while equipment is in operation. The versatile system features a centralised electric or hydraulic pump with an integrated motor, stirring paddle and control board that logs performance and cycles. The pump draws lubricant from a reservoir and delivers it to primary and secondary progressive metering blocks, where precisely sized pistons push exact amounts of grease to individual friction points, bearing pins or bushings.

Designed to withstand high back pressure, extreme temperatures and heavy vibration typical of mining environments, the scalable systems can handle a few points on small machines such as skid steers and up to 150 locations on larger mining or processing machines and equipment.

SKF announced that a prominent South African industrial group, working under contract at a Zambian gold mine, secured 45 Lincoln P203 8 KG progressive systems for leading brand mobile machines. “The investment in Lincoln P203 technology not only strengthens operational reliability but also delivers lasting value across productivity, cost efficiency and worker safety,” adds SKF South Africa country manager Andres Vera.

SKF regional manager: KZN and Eastern Cape Kevin Mills elaborates on the systems’ benefits: “The fact that machines and equipment, such as dump trucks, excavators, wheel loaders and crushers, no longer need to be manually shut down for daily greasing boosts uptime and keeps production on track. Moreover, by accurately delivering precise amounts of lubricant to the correct points, these systems extend component life and minimise product wastage, lowering lubricant and maintenance costs while contributing to more sustainable resource use.”

Continuous lubrication during bearing rotation helps further extend component life by forming a protective seal that prevents the ingress of dirt and dust, effectively mitigating contamination and wear. By providing automatic lubrication, the Lincoln systems also enhance safety as maintenance personnel no longer have to access hard‑to‑access grease points, adds Mills.