Abstract: A supply pump for lubricant or heat transfer liquid of a conventional design is driven by a drive unit independently of the consumer of the lubricant or of the heat transfer liquid. In the event of the failure of the drive unit a forced connection occurs between the pump and the rotating parts of the consumer in order to ensure its supply with the lubricant or the heat transfer liquid at least for a sufficient emergency period. By the independent drive of the supply pump the supply to the consumer can be controlled according to the consumption of lubricant or heat transfer liquid independently of its individual operating characteristic or operating state.