Machinery Lubrication magazine published by Noria Corporation
Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/825468
38 | May - June 2017 | www.machinerylubrication.com AUTOMATIC LUBRICATION manual lubrication. Although no common standard exists, you can create your own clas- sification, which could be similar to the following: Class 1 Less important points that do not affect production and are easy to repair or replace Class 2 More important points that affect production and/or are difficult or time-consuming to replace Class 3 Important points that affect production and/or are expensive to repair or replace Class 4 Critical bearings that directly affect production and must not fail For each class, define which lubrication systems are acceptable and how performance is verified. Classes 3 and 4 are the most inter- esting. If the lubrication system does not work properly for these classes, sooner or later you will experience costly problems. For class 3, only reliable lubrication systems with good control functions should be used. Note that most systems only monitor the pres- sure in the main distribution lines or that the piston has moved in the dispenser. None of the traditional systems can indicate whether the lubrication pipe between the dispenser and the lube point is broken. For class 4, ensure that the amount of lubri- cant fed into the point is measured and compared with the set value, or that vibration measurements are collected on a regular basis and studied, with appropriate action taken when necessary. Finally, do not overlook the training of your team members. Maintenance personnel must be familiar with all types of systems in use. Lubrication systems can fail and need repairing. Therefore, it is wise not to mix many different system types and brands. This could result in choosing a dual-line system for just a few points when a single-line progressive system would be less expensive. Gas generator A gas-activated single-point lubricator A motor-driven single-point lubricator A spring-activated single-point lubricator Spring Motor Electrolyte fluid Grease Stem Grease Grease pouch Press plate Piston Grease Outlet Outlet Battery-powered pump Outlet