Storing lubricants correctly: 6 rules that are often overlooked

An oil drum left outdoors for six months can become more water-contaminated than one in a year of engine operation. The cause lies in day-night temperature fluctuations, not the quality of the oil.

Six principles

1. Store drums horizontally, with the two bungs at the 3 o'clock and 9 o'clock positions. Storing drums upright outdoors creates pools of water on the lids, and cold nights draw water in through the threads.
2. Avoid direct sunlight. Temperature changes cause moist air to enter and exit the drum through the bung gaps.
3. Keep elevated off the ground. Damp concrete floors cause the drum base to rust and make leaks difficult to detect.
4. First-in, first-out. Mark the receipt date on the drum and use older batches first.
5. Seal immediately after dispensing. Leaving a container uncapped overnight is enough for it to absorb moisture.
6. Do not share dispensing tools between different types of oil.

Reference shelf life

Once opened, it is recommended to use the oil within 6 months, even if the expiration date on the packaging has not yet passed.