When it comes to smooth running of industrial machinery, the first things that come to mind are right lubricants, which are required for unrivaled performance and are crucial in high-temperature applications.
GRENVOLubetech has been creating lubricants using the most cutting-edge technologies available.
Industrial chains suffer more from poor lubrication rather than excessive workloads. Regular maintenance and lubrication are the prerequisites for chain drive’s minimal wear and extended service life. The workings of the application define the frequency of maintenance and lubrication, as well as the associated re-lubrication.
Sufficient and efficient lubrication extends the life of the chains several times over. Using the proper oil and type of lubrication ensures reduced wear, corrosion protection, and optional damping qualities.
Even though many low-speed chains may run with little or no oil, frequent maintenance on the manufacturing line considerably improves the equipment’s service life. Lubrication of Chain drives has to necessarily meet the 5 primary objectives:
- Any extraneous material should be removed.
- To avoid corrosion or damage.
- Withstand the pin’s wear and tear.
- Remove the heat.
- Shock absorption.
The viscosity of the lubricant has a significant influence on its ability to flow into equipment. The grease put on the chain’s exterior surface has no other purpose than to preserve it from rust and corrosion. It should not be utilized to provide internal lubrication.
Controlled re-tensioning of the chains has an advantageous effect on the chain’s lifestyles. Severe re-tensioning should be avoided.
How to properly lubricate chains and conveyors?
There are three fundamental lubrication techniques for chain motors and conveyors. Adherence to recommended lubrication techniques is critical for machinery performance.
Circulating Lubrication-
The lubricant is injected into the chain under tension in Circulating Lubrication. The oil must be applied to the top edges of each row across the chain’s entire span before the chain enters one of the sprockets.
Drip Lubrication-
Drip Lubrication is appropriate for slow-paced drives since lubrication is done manually with an oil container or brush. Lubrication should be done with a small amount of oil. The device should be outfitted with either pads or brushes that are supplied with lubricant from a reservoir and properly positioned to distribute oil into the clearances between chains.
Bath Lubrication-
Lubricant is applied to the chain in Bath Lubrication by allowing the oil to circulate within an enclosed casing.
Why is chain lubrication necessary?
All chain drives should be regularly maintained. Each pressure point must be examined regularly as recommended. Even the most powerful chain, built to the highest standards, can be degraded in normal use due to wear and tear, fatigue, or overload. As a result, a chain drive should have appropriate protection to protect from harm or surface damage.
If a roller chain breaks while working at high speed, the chain may be flung off the sprockets with substantial force. Restrict personnel from entering an area where a broken chain may harm them.
The equipment layout should contain provisions for a brake that allows you to prevent and preserve the load in the case of a chain accident.
How crucial are routine inspections and maintenance?
It is very important. You should check the chains at each inspection and adjust or fix the necessary conditions.
When the chain engages or disengages from the sprocket, check for binding. If the sprocket tooth is reduced, it should be examined. After every third chain replacement, the sprockets should be replaced.
What are the signs of low lubrication?
One of the first signs that a chain isn’t getting enough lubrication is when the outer portions of the joints get a reddish/brown hue. If the chain has been running with little lubrication, the pins will often be dark brown, even blue.
Chains that have been appropriately oiled will not display a rusty color at the joints. On slow-speed drives, ensure that the lubrication schedule is followed and if the chain is coated in dust and debris, clean it with a solvent and re-lubricate it.
Changing the oil after the first hundred hours of operation and every 500 hours afterward is suggested.
Examine the chain and sprockets for any particle or foreign substance buildup. Even very little junk within the sprocket can create strong tensile stresses to break the chain.
Consult the setup section and examine chain tension. If the elongation exceeds the allowable adjustment, remove chain pitches and reconnect. If the chain is significantly worn, replace the entire chain.
Things to consider while re-lubricating.
The primary lubricant gets depleted over time due to the oscillating activities of the chain. A lack of lubrication or poor re-lubricants causes dry friction, which leads to corrosion and higher stress on the chain.
Wipe clean, re-lubricated chains and sprockets to remove stubborn contamination and allow the lubricant to enter the bottom of the plates. Solvent may also be used to clean the chain’s surface.
Machine dependability is critical for optimum performance.
GRENVOLubetech products provide value to your operations and can assist you with cost reduction.
Our fleet of products can fulfill the stringent requirements for chain lubricants. This includes preventing residue buildup and providing excellent lubrication with low evaporation at high temperatures while increasing the chain’s life.
