Learning Sessions

Rich Wurzbach - President, MRG Labs

What details are discernible on particles when increasing optical magnification to 2,000x? Determining the exact source of wear particles in lubricant analysis is often constrained by limited expertise and time-consuming manual processes. Traditional Analytical Ferrography provides valuable insights but relies heavily on inference and approximation. This session explores how automated microscopy, machine learning, and Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) can enhance ferrography by increasing accuracy, efficiency, and sample throughput. Attendees will learn how these advancements improve root cause failure analysis (RCFA), filter debris analysis, and targeted alloy identification—empowering asset owners and labs to extract deeper insights with less effort and greater precision.

Paul Hiller - Marketing Manager, International Council for Machinery Lubrication (ICML)

Loren Green - Senior Lubrication SME, DesCase

Rich Wurzbach - President, MRG Labs

Wes Cash - Vice President of Services, Noria Services

Timothy Hubert - Reliability Technician, Kensing Solutions

Food and biopharma industries face unique lubrication challenges due to stringent regulations and the need to prevent contamination. This panel discussion features three certified ICML members sharing real-world experiences in managing food-grade lubrication programs. Attendees will gain insights into regulatory compliance, contamination prevention, and selecting appropriate lubricants. The session aims to enhance understanding of "food-grade" definitions, prepare for inspections, and explore emerging trends impacting lubrication management. Ideal for professionals involved in lubrication program design, lubricant selection, application, and oil analysis in regulated industries.

Blaise Carroll - Application Engineer, SKF Lincoln

Mark Allen - Senior Strategic Portfolio Manager, SKF Lincoln

Submicron contaminants, or "ghost riders," significantly impact oil degradation, accelerating oxidation and leading to varnish, sludge, and sediment buildup. According to ISO 4406 (Particle Count), solid particles in lubricants must be managed to maintain reliability. A large portion of contamination occurs before lubricants even reach equipment, making proper storage and handling essential. This session explores best practices and case histories for filtration and transfer oil from barrels to storage tanks.

Daniel Shorten - SME Lubrication Management, John Crane Solutions

Ameer Salah - Asset Management Business Development manager, John Crane

Optimizing asset condition management requires alignment between OEMs and end users to minimize spares consumption while delivering long-term value. This session explores strategies for reducing costs and increasing uptime by integrating best practices in lubrication management and defect elimination. Failure data and real-world evidence highlight common issues affecting mechanical seal interfaces, while practical insights demonstrate how lubrication excellence contributes to lower operational costs for large rotating equipment like pumps. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of maintenance management options, the cost implications of ineffective practices, and how a collaborative approach to asset condition management drives sustainable performance improvements.

Gerald (Jerry) Putt - Contract Instructor, Noria

Many organizations overlook the significant energy savings that proper lubrication practices can provide. Drawing from experience as a Regional Energy Coordinator for Goodyear, this session will highlight both traditional energy conservation strategies and the untapped potential of lubrication-focused initiatives. Attendees will learn how lubricant selection, viscosity control, contamination management, and application methods impact energy consumption. We’ll also explore how over-greasing motors and improper lubrication techniques lead to wasted energy. Ideal for maintenance professionals and plant managers, this session provides actionable insights to integrate lubrication into energy conservation efforts for measurable cost savings.

Brandon Hare - VP, Digilube Systems

Description coming soon...

Mark Barnes - Senior Vice President Global Sales, Des-Case Corporation

Wade Myers - Reliability Engineer, Hormel Foods

A mid-west food manufacturer turned to precision lubrication to improve productivity and reduce maintenance costs, resulting in nearly $400,000 in annual returns and an 80,000 lb. increase in production. In this session, Mark Barnes will share real-world case studies on how effective lubrication practices can reduce machine failures, extend equipment life, and minimize downtime. Attendees will learn how to transform lubrication from a cost center to a profit center, optimize contamination control, and gain management buy-in through measurable metrics. Ideal for maintenance professionals, reliability engineers, and plant managers, this session offers actionable insights to boost operational efficiency and compliance.

Johannes Kiesel - President & CEO, H-T-L PERMA USA L.P.

Laine Fury - Vice President Sales, H-T-L PERMA USA L.P.

In large-scale operations, equipment downtime, high labor costs, and safety concerns are constant challenges. We will explore how predictive maintenance and connected lubrication solutions can transform maintenance practices, enhancing productivity and reducing costs. Attendees will learn how to leverage smart lubrication systems, like LoRa WAN or Bluetooth, for real-time monitoring and control of lubrication points, improving efficiency and safety. Real-world case studies will demonstrate how these technologies reduce downtime, enhance machine reliability, and minimize labor costs.

Raymond Dalley - Business Development Manager, Trico Corp

Join Ray Dalley of Trico Corp/Predict for a captivating journey through the history of oil analysis—from its early roots in the 1960s to the cutting-edge technologies of today. With more than 30 years of experience in research, manufacturing, sales, and marketing of ferrography (wear particle analysis), Ray offers a unique perspective on how oil analysis has evolved and shaped the world of reliability. This keynote will also issue an inspiring call to action for the next generation to advance and carry this vital technology forward.

Chris Riley - Critical System Reliability Manager, JLL

Blair Fraser - Vice President, UE Systems

Traditional time-based lubrication often leads to unnecessary shutdowns, excessive labor costs, and lubrication inefficiencies. This session explores how JLL transformed its maintenance approach by implementing an autonomous, condition-based lubrication system using real-time ultrasound monitoring. Learn how this transition eliminated scheduled shutdowns, optimized lubrication cycles, and improved equipment reliability in a highly regulated facility. Attendees will gain insights into the implementation process, key challenges, and measurable benefits, including extended bearing life, reduced downtime, and enhanced maintenance efficiency. Ideal for those looking to modernize their lubrication strategies.

Lisandra Cobu - lubrication coordinator, Vale

Henrique Oliveira - Engineer, Vale

In a competitive manufacturing environment, maintaining low production costs while delivering high-quality products requires effective maintenance and lubrication strategies. This session will present a practical example of how to implement a Lubrication Program focused on asset reliability and longevity. Using a methodology with 10 key pillars and 4 maturity levels, attendees will learn the steps to ensure sustainable success and avoid common missteps that can derail goals. By examining a real-world case from a Pelletizing Plant, this session will highlight how a systemic approach to reliable lubrication led to significant financial and reliability gains within one year.

Steve Breeze - Millwright/Lube Champion, Armstrong plywood, Tolko Industries Ltd.

Paul Farless - Associate Technical Consultant, Noria Corporation

This session shares a firsthand account of driving lubrication improvement at Tolko—from starting with nothing to making meaningful progress. It’s a story of both successes and setbacks, proving that dedication and effort can achieve significant reliability gains. Topics include setting up a Perma Bluetooth auto-lube system, navigating metric vs. standard fittings, lessons learned from testing breathers, filtration, and sampling, and overcoming challenges in implementation. Attendees will gain insight into what to prioritize when launching a lubrication improvement program, how to manage costs by tackling low-hanging fruit first, and strategies for getting buy-in from experienced workers resistant to change. Practical advice from someone on the front lines will help others champion lubrication excellence in their own facilities.

Roger Beavans - Product Manager, FS-Elliott

Selecting the right lubricant is crucial for ensuring reliability, efficiency, and longevity in centrifugal air compressors. This session will break down the differences between mineral oils, PAOs, POEs, and PAGs, highlighting their benefits and drawbacks. Attendees will learn how to identify key lubricant properties, implement best practices for oil sampling, and interpret test results to monitor compressor health. Whether you're choosing a new lubricant or optimizing your current system, this session will equip you with the knowledge to reduce downtime and improve operational costs.

Kevin Keith - Lubrication Specialist, Blue Buffalo

Working in industrial lubrication comes with its fair share of challenges, but every problem presents an opportunity for a smarter solution. This session shares real-world lessons learned—sometimes through trial and error—along with practical, no-nonsense fixes for common lubrication issues. From improving sight glass reliability to boosting productivity with grease line extensions and creative labeling techniques, attendees will walk away with simple, effective ideas they can apply immediately. No sales pitches, just hands-on solutions for maintenance professionals at any experience level.