|
FAQ |
FAQ
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Mighty Lube equipment and lubricants. If you have a question and don’t find your answer here, feel free to contact us. We are happy to assist you with your conveyor maintenance and lubrication needs.
Since there are so many different applications for conveyor systems, no single lubricant is appropriate for all applications. Mighty Lube offers a wide variety of conveyor lubricants suited to many applications. We will be happy to help you determine which lube is most appropriate for your needs. You may also refer to our Technical Data Sheets for further information.
Rarely is this a sign of a problem. Mighty Lube systems are designed to apply lubricant only as it is required and as it has been programmed to do. After completing the lubrication cycle, the lubricator goes into an “off cycle” for the specified number of chain revolutions. In certain applications, this may even be several days.
On enclosed track conveyors, typical lube time settings are around 10 to 15 milliseconds. Monorail and formed track conveyors require more because of the greater bearing surface to be covered, usually somewhere in the 15 to 25 millisecond range. Depending on various factors, these settings may be higher or lower, but it is not recommended to go below 8 milliseconds to insure proper solenoid operation.
Frequency of lubrication is determined by many factors. Chain length and speed, heat and water are important considerations. A rule of thumb is for slow moving conveyors, low to moderate heat conditions, one lubrication cycle for each eight hour shift that the conveyor is operation. Example: A 500′ conveyor at 10′ per minute would make 9.6 revolutions in an eight hour period. Programing 9 into the off cycles would cause the lubricator to activate once per shift. When changing off cycle settings it is recommended that the value not be changed more then 10% at a time and the new setting should be run for a few shifts to determine if further adjustment is required.
If a timer is used, any variation in the operation schedule can cause over or under lubrication to result. Some older timed systems that were not actuated by chain movement even come on when the conveyor is not running, causing all the lubricant intended for the entire chain to be applied in one place. Mighty Lube equipment operates only while the conveyor is operating. By counting cycles instead of time, you are assured that the chain is lubricated as needed. This is a great advantage on conveyors with variable speeds and schedules.
On enclosed track systems, one solenoid had three tubes. These are aimed at the top of the link connectors and into the bearing opening on the horizontal bearings. The two tubes from the other solenoid are aimed into the bearing opening on the vertical bearings.
On monorail or formed track conveyor, the tops of the chain pins are aimed at with the tubes from one solenoid and the tubes from the other solenoid are aimed into the bearing opening on the trolley. Caution must be used when working in close proximity of the conveyor while it is in operation.
On photo switches, used for reading the links on monorail and formed track conveyors, the most common cause of sporadic firing is built-up dirt. Simply cleaning the face of the switch will usually solve this problem. Occasionally, a part or hanger that is skewed may hit a switch, damaging it or knocking it out of adjustment. Adjustment is accomplished by loosening the jam nuts on the switch body and moving it in or out as needed. Adjustment of the proximity switches is accomplished in the same manner: being careful that the prox switch does not actually contact the bearings.
Most likely, the tank has gotten too low on lubricant. Check the level in the reservoir. A minimum of three inches is required for proper operation. Refill the reservoir, turn it off and then back on to restart the system. The other possibility is that a lubricant supply line has been severed, Mighty Lube equipment automatically shuts down in the case of low line pressure due to an open line. Repair the severed line then restart the system as above.
Mighty Lube offers brush cleaning systems as a part of a complete conveyor maintenance system. Keeping the conveyor clean also helps assure proper lubricant application.
For best results, we recommend installing one enclosed track channel sweep brush assembly for every 250 feet of chain. So if you have 750 feet of chain, it is advised to install three brush assemblies (one every 250 feet).
Email purchase orders to sales-AP@opcolube.com or call +65 68097110 to place an order by phone.
Please submit a quote request to receive pricing on any of our products.
