The viscosity of oil in a lube system and its impact on system bearings if not filtered appropriately can adversely impact on system performance and have catastrophic consequences and system non-performance. SKF states; “as long as particles larger than the lubricant film are removed, bearings can have an infinite life”. Lubricants must be checked for contamination when the lube oil is delivered at the plant. Whether it is offline filtration or online filtration engineers should ensure the lube oil is clean and meets the system specifications.
Chris Banks of Hydrasales advocates contamination control measures and recommends strongly that system designers and system constructors incorporate simple, cost effective equipment in their system design for cleanliness in lubrication systems.
He cites the inclusion of the following types of equipment for reducing contamination within a hard-working system. These applications normally run 24/7 and the engineer cannot afford a breakdown or disruption in the working cycle.
A MEDIUM PRESSURE INLINE FILTER RANGE THAT IS AN IDEAL PARTNER FOR LUBRICATION FILTRATION?
A wide range of inline filtration with flows from 200 Lt/pm to 3000Lt/pm that accommodates pressures from 20 Bar – 80 Bar.
Chris Banks says; “Hydrasales has full access to MP Filtri’s filter sizing software allowing our customer peace of mind that the correct filter is identified for the application and can meet the design requirements.”
The LMP range of filters are durable In-line filters with a wide range of element media options, including water removal. Chris Banks advises; “It is ideal for high flow charge pump supply, a return line or an off-line filtration circuit. The duplex filter range known as the LMD range is designed to allow element changeout in continuous duty machine operations. This makes maintenance more efficient, eliminating downtime when filter element requires replacement or cleaning.
He expands; “ A water removal element is available with 25 micron Absolute Filtration” He cites the following benefits to water removal:
- Remove particulate and water contamination
- improving system reliability and efficiency
- Dramatically extends oil and hydraulic component life
- Reduces the chance of catastrophic failure
- Reduces replacement part costs, maintenance
- costs and associated downtime
- Increases equipment performance and improves machine productivity.
CHECK YOUR LEVELS. ARE YOU SURE OF YOUR LUBRICATION BEING DELIVERED?
Lubrication systems deliver precise amounts of lubricant to multiple lubrication points wat the right place and at the right time. However, it can be challenging to ensure that the lubricant reliably reaches the lube point.
He cites the use of good but cost-effective flow monitoring to ensure that there is flow at critical points. The flow can be seen and monitored. Hydrasales supplies the Badger meter product range including Headland variable flow meters available with a microswitch to allow for low flow alarm. An alternative could be visual or electrical oil level gauges to suit the requisite application.
PROTECT YOUR PUMP WITH ACCESIBLE AND WASHABLE SUCTION FILTERS!!
MP Filtri’s Elixir Range of filters includes the SFEX, Inline Suction Filter including wire mesh filter cartridge for the bowl and housing. This design allows for a mesh element to be easily removed, inspected and cleaned. The more common spin on oil filters cannot be cleaned and need to be replaced. This is not economical compared to a fully reusable cartridge element.
Commonly found suction strainers are generally situated at the bottom of the reservoir and are not easily accessible especially with a full reservoir. The Elixir range has been designed to accommodate higher flows, with improved connection system reducing leakage and reducing dirt to the output circuit. The range can accommodate differential clogging indicators and pressures of 16 Bar.
RESERVOIR DESSICANT BREATHERS FOR MOISTURE EXTRACTION
Studies have shown that around seventy percent of equipment loss efficiency is due to surface degradation. The ned for replacement is the direct result of corrosion and mechanical wear accounts for the balance. The most common causes of this corrosion and mechanical wear are dirt and moisture originating outside the machine. When you have moisture in your lubricant or hydraulic fluid, a myriad of negative influencers cause problems. For example, moisture leads to corrosion, which in turn leads to particulate contamination. Moisture can also affect the required oil viscosity, deplete additives and result in sludge formation.
Contact Hydrasales at harpo@hydrasale.co.za for filter sizing, free support on lube system filtration and contamination.
EDITORIAL SUPPLIED BY:
Haroun Pochee
Email: harpo@hydrasale.co.za
for your filtration and accessories needs or visit www.hydrasale.co.za
Tel 027 11 392 3736
Fax 027 11 392 6957