Sometimes, technicians find themselves in a difficult situation about lubricating their bearings. They are often confused at the frequency at which they are supposed to lubricate the machines. Also, another important question is the amount of lubricant that one is supposed to use. Every machine is different, hence they work differently, their pace of working is variable and the frequencies are different. It is highly important to know the actual mechanics of the machine, for example, the energy use it has or how much does it get heated, etc.
For lubricating the bearings, there are two things to remember:
Avoid Under Lubrication: It causes a bearing to wear out before time.
Avoid Over Lubrication: It damages motor coils and windings in the long run.
Previously, the lubrication of the bearing was time-based. It was often recommended on the basis of hours of operation. Mechanics are often advised to lubricate their machines at regular intervals which leads to excess grease on the bearings. These suggestions may nurture wrong belief amongst people that they can use grease randomly at short intervals which eventually leads to bearings damage.
Such practices should be strongly discouraged…!
Lubrication intervals are based on a very simple premise:
- Optimally running an equipment
- Prevention of bearing from running dry
- Avoiding over lubrication
A condition-based lubrication strategy states how much to lubricate and when to lubricate depending on the rate at which the machine works. Regular monitoring of bearings and checking on the working condition of the machine is one of the simplest yet powerful methods to do effective lubrication. Perfect lubrication at the perfect timings gives maximum benefit to the machines.
For accomplishing condition based lubrication strategy, it is best to know when to lubricate and when to stop greasing. Regular monitoring of lubricant and the machine part will help analyze the need for lubricating.