Re-Greasing Points to Remember

Re-Greasing Points to Remember

Condition based lubrication using ultrasonic acoustic lubricators is better than time based scheduled re-lubrication. Ultrasonic monitoring trends the frictional forces present in the bearing and determines early breakdown of the hydrodynamic oil film.

Re-greasing the motor bearings is best done with the aid of an ultrasonic system that can interface its sensor to any grease gun. Before lube technicians can use ultrasonic techniques to re-grease electric motor bearings they need to have a full understanding of the installation. Without knowledge of some basic lubrication fundamentals more harm than good will come from re-lubrication.

Some points to remember are:

1. Determine if the bearings can even be re-greased. Sealed bearings cannot.
2. What type of grease is to be used? Don’t mix incompatible greases. Designate an Acoustic Grease Gun Adaptor for each type of grease used, and if you must change from one grease gun to another be sure to thoroughly clean the Adaptor first.
3. Have clear access to the drain and fill fittings and ensure the drain port is open
4. The drain port could be obstructed by dried lubricant! Use a CLEAN wire brush to ensure there is no blockage prior to adding grease.
5. Is the bearing open faced, shielded, double shielded or sealed? In some motors more than one type of bearing is used. Knowing the bearing type will affect how the bearing is lubricated. Sealed bearings cannot be re-greased. Shielded or double shielded bearings can be re-greased but the grease must be added slowly to avoid pressurizing the cavity and pushing the seals against the cage.

Consult OEM specs to know what you are greasing before you grease it. Then, considering the above points, follow the protocol for ultrasonic greasing. These protocols are available from the manufacture of your ultrasonic instrument.

Tip provided by SDT North America
http://www.sdtnorthamerica.com/apps/tips.htm

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