Over greasing
Over lubrication can cause excess heat build-up, bearing seal damage, clean up issues and increased downtime. Surplus grease in a bearing cavity will cause the rollers or balls to slide rather than turn, pushing and churning the grease out of the way.
Increased friction and pressure caused by the excess grease raises the temperature, decreasing the effectiveness of the lubricant by causing the oil to separate from the thickener. The result is a hardening of the grease, which leaves little or no lubrication and can prevent new grease from lubricating equipment effectively.
Excessive lubrication can also cause bearing seal damage. Surplus grease can cause seals to split allowing contaminants such as water and dirt into the bearing cavity.
Under greasing
Under greasing in a bearing housing can be even more detrimental to equipment than overgreasing. Insufficient lubrication for the bearing increases friction between the moving parts causing excess heat to be generated. Additionally, a lack of lubrication makes contamination more likely resulting in damage to the rotating parts.
Eventually, the grease will begin to harden due to oxidation making what little lubricant is present even less effective.
Both under and over greasing should be avoided. Using the right amount of lubrication will extend the life of your equipment and, because machines that are properly lubricated require less energy, will lead to lower energy costs.
ANDEROL’s worldwide and local technical professionals can provide you with specific advice for your precise circumstances and equipment. We can train your team on lubrication and safety to ensure that you are not only using the right lubrication but also the right amount. Find your nearest ANDEROL distributor here or contact us directly.
