The International Council for Machinery Lubrication (ICML) has made a major advancement in lubrication with the new ICML 55. An article in Machinery Lubrication reports that ICML 55 now includes three documents: ICML 55.0 Overview, ICML 55.1 Requirements, and ICML 55.2 Guideline. These documents provide a detailed approach to optimizing lubrication processes for mechanical assets.
This suite follows the ISO 55000 standard and helps organizations streamline their lubrication practices.
A Holistic Approach to Lubrication Management
The ICML 55 Standard offers a structured framework for creating and maintaining a Lubrication Management System. First, ICML 55.0 Overview highlights its strategic role. Next, 55.1 Requirements defines key components, while 55.2 Guideline provides practical steps for implementation.
Leslie Fish, Executive Director of ICML, calls the ICML 55 Standard a major advancement for lubrication. It helps companies align practices with operational goals boosting machine reliability, reducing energy use, and minimizing environmental impact while providing practitioners and managers a clear framework for career success.
Global Industry Impact
Ken Bannister, Program Director for ICML 55, hailed the new standard as a milestone marking a new era in industrial lubrication. He explained that it is a game-changer, giving companies the chance to improve their lubrication systems systematically. Moreover, by adopting ICML 55, companies can strengthen their market position and showcase their commitment to best practices in lubrication and asset management.
Jim Fitch, ICML’s Founding Director and CEO of Noria Corporation, called this a “crowning achievement” for ICML. He emphasized that the standard strengthens ICML’s global leadership in lubrication asset management. It also provides a reliable, actionable guide for companies aiming to improve their lubrication processes.
Alignment with ISO Standards
ICML 55 aligns strategically with the ISO 55000 Asset Management Standard, which emphasizes optimizing physical assets to achieve organizational goals. Additionally, it focuses specifically on lubrication, enabling companies to integrate lubrication management into broader asset strategies. As a result, machinery maintenance maximizes reliability, safety,
ICML 55 addresses twelve key areas for successful lubrication programs, including training, machine readiness, lubricant selection, maintenance, inspection, energy efficiency, and environmental impact. This structured framework helps companies optimize lubrication systems efficiently and sustainably.
Certification and Future Plans
Looking ahead, ICML will launch the ICML 55.3 certification in 2025, allowing companies to undergo audits that verify compliance with the ICML 55 standards. This way, certification publicly demonstrates a company’s commitment to optimal machinery performance and reliable lubrication management. Moreover, even without certification, the ICML 55 series serves as a practical guide, offering global best practices for effective lubrication programs.
Rendela Wenzel, ICML board chair, praised the standard as a clear roadmap for lubrication excellence. By combining expert insights from around the world, it serves as an essential resource for companies seeking world-class lubrication management.
Conclusion: A New Standard in Industrial Lubrication
In partnership with River Publishers, ICML has released the ICML 55 Standard in both print and digital formats, with additional translations planned based on demand. This global availability reinforces ICML’s leadership, giving companies the resources and expertise needed to excel in today’s competitive market.
Adopting ICML 55 helps companies improve the reliability and efficiency of their lubrication practices. It also aligns these practices with broader asset management goals. This standard goes beyond simple machinery maintenance. Instead, it promotes sustainable, long-term growth for both organizations and lubrication professionals.