Overview - ISO 5170:1977 (Machine tools - Lubrication systems)
ISO 5170:1977 defines a standardized approach to lubrication systems for machine tools. It provides a classification of lubrication methods and system types, specifications for components (reservoirs, pumps, piping, fittings, filters, metering devices), control and monitoring requirements, layout practice and maintenance guidance. Intended primarily for machine tool manufacturers and users, ISO 5170 also applies to other general types of machinery to help rationalize lubrication methods and improve reliability and safety.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Scope and classification
- Methods: Total-loss, Circulating, Hydrostatic lubrication.
- System types: Individual point and Centralized systems (restrictor, single-line, two-line, multi-line, progressive plunger, oil mist/aerosol, combined).
- Component specifications
- Reservoir requirements (capacity, level indicators, drainage, mesh strainers for >3 L, visual indication for >0.5 L).
- Pump types and drive options (electric, pneumatic, hydraulic, mechanical, manual), mounting and labeling requirements.
- Piping: flexible or rigid with chemical compatibility, minimum grease line diameters, layout to avoid pressure loss and traps (oil-mist pipework must slope to reservoir).
- Filters and metering: filtration to prevent contamination, metering device placement close to lubrication point, one outlet per metering device (except oil mist).
- Control, monitoring and safety
- Pressure and level indicators, alarms for low lubricant, means to stop machines on critical failures.
- Positioning of visual indicators for operator accessibility, protective guards where action points pose hazards.
- Documentation and testing
- Manufacturers must supply component lists, lubrication instructions (amounts per hour) complying with ISO 5169, operation and maintenance instructions, and meet acceptance/testing requirements in the standard.
Practical applications and users
- Who uses ISO 5170
- Machine tool designers, OEMs, maintenance engineers, plant reliability teams, and equipment safety auditors.
- Practical value
- Standardizes lubrication design across production machines for mass-production and complex tooling.
- Reduces downtime and wear by prescribing good layout, monitoring and maintenance practices.
- Guides selection and specification of lubricants (reference to ISO 3498) and electrical equipment (IEC publications).
Related standards
- ISO 3498 - Lubricants for machine tools (referenced)
- ISO 5169 - Presentation of lubrication instructions / labeling (referenced)
- ISO 1219 - Fluid power systems - Graphic symbols (referenced)
- Relevant IEC publications for electric motors and electrical equipment
ISO 5170 remains a practical reference for implementing safe, maintainable and efficient machine tool lubrication systems. Keywords: ISO 5170, machine tools lubrication systems, centralized lubrication, oil mist, hydrostatic lubrication, lubrication maintenance, industrial lubrication standards.
