Correct lubrication is one of the conditions for proper bearing operation. It is very important not only to choose the right brand of lubricant, but also to use it correctly. An incorrectly selected lubricant or insufficient lubrication will lead to premature wear and reduced bearing life.
Instructions
Step 1
Bearing life is determined by the material from which the parts are made and the lubricant. The role of lubrication has increased with an increase in speeds, an increase in loads, and an increase in the tension of the friction units. The rise in temperatures also had a strong effect - this is the most important factor that affects the condition and life of the grease in the bearing.
Step 2
The level of energy losses to overcome the resistance from internal friction in the lubricant itself depends on the correct choice of lubricant. Therefore, the designer, when planning the development of a new bearing unit, must carefully choose the type and brand of lubricant. In addition, he should pay attention to the choice of material for the assembly.
Step 3
The main methods of lubrication are the following types of lubrication: grease, wick, oil supply by centrifugal atomization and oil mist.
Step 4
When assembling units, grease is placed in the bearing housings. It is recommended to add fresh grease after a certain period of time, which depends on the operating conditions. In this case, the assembly is disassembled, all parts are washed. Fresh grease is applied.
Step 5
Wick lubrication is used in high-speed bearing assemblies that require a metered oil supply. In this case, the wick acts as a filter that provides oil cleaning, suction and splashing of lubricant.
Step 6
The wick oil supply is done in different ways. In one case, oil can be supplied with a wick from a reservoir that is located above the bearing. Alternatively, wicks can also be used to lubricate vertical shafts. The end of the wick rests on a washer that rotates with the shaft and covers the top of the bearing.
Step 7
Wick lubrication has some disadvantages. Firstly, it is an insignificant and difficult to regulate oil supply. Secondly, the gradual clogging of the wicks.
Step 8
In some units, wick lubrication is successfully combined with centrifugal oil supply. The wick in this case acts as a safety element if there is an interruption in the supply of centrifugal lubricant.
Step 9
The oil is supplied by centrifugal atomization through holes in the fast rotating shaft. Oil is poured into the channel through a hole in the end cap. It is sucked into this hole by itself due to the vacuum in the channel and is thrown out through the holes by centrifugal force.
Step 10
Oil mist is a relatively new lubrication method. It is used in high speed bearings. Oil mist lubrication is recommended for bearings operating at low to medium loads. This method is notable for saving oil consumption. This increases the service life of the bearings.
Step 11
If you are unsure of which lubricant to buy for your bearings, consider the temperature at which they operate. At ultra-high temperatures, paste-like lubricants are used. For medium temperatures, you can choose mineral lubricants in the store. For low temperatures, it is best to purchase silicone lubricants. For high-speed bearings, synthetic lubricants are most commonly used.
