Maintenance – lubrication according to plan
In order for rolling bearings to function reliably, adequate lubrication is absolutely important. The lubricant prevents wear and protects the surfaces against corrosion and dirt. Therefore, the choice of a suitable lubricant and lubrication process is as important as proper maintenance for each individual storage case.
A wide range of greases, oil lubricants and other lubricants are available for the lubrication of rolling bearings. The choice of a suitable lubricant and a suitable lubrication process depends primarily on the requirements such as the required speed or the permissible operating temperature. However, other operating conditions, e.g. Vibrations and stresses can affect the selection.
The most favorable operating temperature is found when only the lubricant quantity, which is just sufficient for reliable lubrication, is supplied to the bearing. However, if the lubricant has to fulfill additional tasks, such as sealing, rinsing or heat removal, larger amounts of lubricant may also be required.
The lubricant in a bearing gradually loses its lubricity in the course of the operating time as a result of the constant mechanical stress, the aging and the increasing contamination. Therefore the lubricant must be supplemented or renewed from time to time, and the oil must be filtered or replaced at certain intervals during oil lubrication.
A lubrication system must be checked regularly for its functions. Daily inspections of the bearings and the lubrication system ensure low wear and tear, inspections of the lubrication points and the entire lubrication system are part of the everyday routine of every maintenance and form an important part of the maintenance work.
Lubrication oil and hydraulic oil control are part of the daily work of maintenance.
A short inspection can be carried out by means of checklists and a daily inspection at each facility.
All bearings and moving parts of a machine or system must be adequately lubricated in order to prevent a machine failure. In the case of the inspections, the actual wear is additionally determined and documented. In this way, it is possible to respond quickly if necessary and components are kept ready for replacement.
In a maintenance plan, all information on the lubricants, lubrication cycles and all other necessary tasks should be clearly described. Photos can easily visualize the states and components. The work is carried out and documented according to plan.
Checkinstruktion-
- Check the bearings for audible damage and heat. Bearings make noisy noises and produce „overflow frequencies“ as the rolling bearings roll over the defective locations. You can detect this with a stethoscope.
- Visual inspection of the gears whether damage is present, there is sufficient lubricant. Listen to the running gears. Defective or poorly adjusted gears produce dull noises and noticeable vibrations. This is where a stethoscope helps.
- Visually inspect the hydraulic oil for signs of aging, dirt and foreign matter, deposits and water content. Take a sample if necessary and have it analyzed in the laboratory. Check the level switch, temperature monitoring, filter monitoring and other electrical connections and lines on the unit.
- Check the lubrication unit for leaks and visible damage. Check the level switch and the temperature. Check the monitoring for safe operation. Noise emission of the engine, clutch or pump, check for heat.
- Have the hydraulic components, lubrication and pipes, manifolds and valves undergone regular testing? Check maintenance schedules of the machine.