Operators must first determine how much grease is needed and where it needs to be applied. This not only requires creating and maintaining a lubrication schedule, but factoring in time to temporarily halt operations to perform maintenance. The brushes and grease guns used in manual methods make precise application difficult, and can potentially introduce contaminants into the fluid system.
The invention of auto lube systems has changed the hydraulics industry, introducing a more effective and efficient way to maintain fluid power equipment.
Why You Should Consider an Automatic Lubrication System
Is an auto lube system right for your equipment? From mobile and industrial equipment to high-speed automation machinery, there are several advantages to using automatic lubrication in your application.
1. Optimal Lubrication
Under-lubrication causes numerous mechanical issues, including drag, wear, and overheating that cause major component damage. Automatic systems dose precise amounts of oil or grease to critical points in your hydraulic system. Unlike manual methods, the application is uniform and consistent, ensuring that components are never over- or under-lubricated.
2. Reduced Contamination
Fluid contamination is the top cause of system issues. Manual lubrication can introduce contaminants to the system through the zerk, especially when care is not taken to thoroughly clean the area before grease application.
Automatic lubrication products filter fluids to remove contaminants as the lubricant is dispensed. The injectors that deliver fluid or grease are securely connected with fittings, creating a virtually contaminate-free pathway for fluid delivery.
3. Less Waste
Manual methods require a lot of guesswork and often result in over-lubrication. With an automatic lubrication system, you only use the amount of fluid required to achieve efficient equipment performance. There is less waste and cleanup, saving operators time and reducing environmental hazards caused by spilled grease.
4. Improved Safety
Lubrication is best applied while bearings are moving, but application during any type of equipment movement presents serious hazards for operators. Using an automated lubrication system eliminates this danger, allowing for safer operation and maintenance.
5. Maximized Uptime
Every minute a hydraulic system is down causes costly operational delays. Though maintenance issues can never be fully avoided, proper lubrication is proven to improve equipment performance, productivity, and longevity. Eliminating the need to stop work to apply lubricant further decreases equipment downtime, increasing production time and profitability.
Types of Auto Lube Systems for Hydraulic Equipment
Automatic lubrication systems come in single-point and multi-point options. Single-point systems have a simpler setup, with the intent of lubricating one designated point on a consistent schedule. Multi-point systems are more complex and highly customized to deliver grease or lubricant to numerous components across a piece of equipment.
Both types of auto lube systems have a grease or oil reservoir, filter, pump, controller, metering device, tubing, and fittings. Sensors and additional valves might also be included depending on the design. Systems can also be designed and installed with remote access capabilities, which is ideal for automated mobile and industrial equipment.
Are you an OEM or business interested in exploring the benefits of auto lube systems for heavy equipment? Partner with our application engineers to discuss custom hydraulic solutions for your application. Call us to request a free equipment audit today!