The Basics of an Automatic Lubrication System
It is of utmost importance to keep your equipment properly lubricated for the optimal health and effectiveness of all moving parts. Automatic lubrication can help prevent machinery issues and extend the life of your equipment.
Automatic lubrication systems can consistently provide equipment, including bearings and bushings, with the precise amount of lubrication needed to keep moving parts safe from overheating and experiencing excess friction.
Automatic Lubrication System Components
An automatic lubrication system is comprised of the following parts:
- Metering device
A metering device equally siphons fluid to two points, as opposed to a tee that may cause an imbalance in providing lubrication evenly. Metering devices are the core of an automatic lubrication system, ensuring that fluid is correctly distributed within the machinery.
- Pumps
Pumps are available in varying flow rates in order to best match the needs of a particular system. These pumps control the flow of oil and grease within a system in order to actuate the metering device.
In most cases, pumps and metering devices are two separate components, though some pumps, such as piston pumps, can have built-in metering devices, as well.
- Controller
The controller automates the dispensing of lubrication to ensure that equipment is regularly and consistently oiled. Specific varieties of pumps may also have controllers built into their functionality, but most often pumps and controllers are separate units.
- Tubing and hoses
Strong tubing is necessary in order to allow fluid to flow optimally throughout the system without excess pressure buildup.
Choose your hose based on the needed application to ensure that it can withstand the pressure that will be applied to it. If the tube is weak or the diameter of the hose is too small, this pressure could burst the tube, causing possible injury and unnecessary cleanup.
- Additional Components
In addition to these main factors of an automatic lubrication system, optional parts including filters, sensors, and check valves may be used to enhance the design and function of the existing system.
These main parts are essential to systems used in industries ranging from food and beverage, mining, construction, and more.
Make sure to keep your equipment adequately and precisely lubricated to increase lifespan and keep everything functioning properly. For identifying the best automatic lubrication system to meet your needs and keep your equipment functioning optimally, contact us today.