How do you store your aviation lubricant oil cans?

Storing the oil cans in a proper way is often overlooked. The perception is that the oil is safe in the oil can. So why be concerned about, how the can is stored. However – Even in a clean storage room dust and dirt start to settle on top of the cans once the box is open. Due to a microscopic oil film, new oil cans tend to act as a magnet to dust and debris.

Once the oil can leaves the storage room the real FOD attack start. Exposed to open hangar spaces, hangars with open doors, line cars, aircraft baggage compartment, on top of tool boxes and work benches or in the field. The oil cans will need a very good cleaning before use to avoid the dirt and debris from being mixed with the oil when filled.

Here are 5 important steps to prevent contamination with FOD:

• Keep the oil cans and funnels clean and dry, away from sources of dust and debris. Install TheCanKey DustCaps with FOD reminder Logo already in the storage room when opening the box.
• Keep the oil cans covered when not in use. This can be done by using TheCanKey DustCaps or FunnelCaps on the oil cans. Always keep FunnelCaps installed and sealed, even on empty cans.
• Clean and inspect the oil cans and funnels before use. This includes wiping down the cans and funnels with a clean, dry cloth to remove any dust or debris.
• Keep the oil cans and funnels organized and properly labeled. This can include keeping the cans and funnels in designated areas and labeling them with their contents and expiration dates.
• Use proper handling techniques. This includes using gloves and clean tools when handling oil cans and funnels. Always open the oil can with a certified FOD free TheCanKey oil can opener.

By taking these steps, maintenance crew and pilots can ensure they don’t introduce FOD to oil systems when servicing or filling oil. It is an easy, proper and effective way to prevent FOD. Using TheCanKey FOD free oil servicing tools will ultimately save costs and improve overall safety and performance of the engine.

Read more about TheCanKey FOD free oil service tools here: www.TheCanKey.com