Why You Need Automated Lubrication Systems for Your Grinders
Studies have shown that 53% of bearing failures are attributed to improper lubrication or lack of it. A bearing is an important part of grinder machines and its failure could result in downtime. The main causes of bearing failure include contamination from dust, dirt and humidity or inadequate bearing lubrication.
It’s no surprise that manual lubrication is not a reliable solution to lubrication. Aside from being time-consuming, it is also prone to human errors such as over and under-lubrication, which causes significant damage to the grinder. That’s where automated lubrication systems come in.
An automated lubrication system is a simpler way to lubricate your grinding machine. With it, grinder components can be lubricated accurately, leading to a longer lifespan of your equipment and reduced downtime associated with lubricating issues.
What Is an Automated Lubrication System?
An automated lubrication system (ALS) is an electrically powered, programmable system that automatically dispenses a predetermined amount of lubricant to a specific lubrication point at set intervals. It allows consistent dispensing of precise amounts of lubricant to critical grinder machines parts, such as bearings, chains, gears and other moving components.
Why Manual Lubrication Should Be Avoided in Grinding Operations?
Manual lubrication should be avoided in grinding operations due to several reasons. It can be time-consuming and labor-intensive, causing frequent stopping and starting of the machine, leading to decreased productivity.
Manual lubrication also increases the risk of accidents and injuries, as workers have to manually apply lubricant near moving parts and hot surfaces.
Inconsistent or inadequate lubrication can result in excessive wear and tear on critical components, leading to costly breakdowns and repairs.
Manual lubrication relies heavily on the attention and judgment of human operators. Unfortunately, human errors are inevitable. Lubricating is not an easy task so no matter how careful you are, you are prone to make mistakes leading to inconsistent lubricant application. This inconsistency can result in under lubrication in some areas, leading to friction, heat and premature wear, while other areas may receive excessive lubrication, causing mess, wastage and contamination.
The Advantages of Using Automated Lubrication Systems for Grinders
When an automated lubrication system is integrated into a grinding machine, it offers many advantages including:
Enhanced Equipment Performance
Automated lubrication systems dispense the right amount of lubricant to your equipment at the right time. This not only improves the performance of your equipment and maximizes your productivity, but it also extends its lifespan by reducing friction which can lead to premature wear of the machine. This will save you the cost of replacing the equipment or its components and exorbitant maintenance costs.
Improved Safety
We have explained how manual lubrication can lead to inadequate or excessive grinder machine lubrication. That is not the only danger prevalent in manual lubrication. Your operators are also predisposed to risk when applying lubrication manually. Oftentimes, they are forced to climb or go under to reach lubricating points. Automated lubrication systems enhance workplace safety by reducing the need for direct operator involvement in manual lubrication tasks. This minimizes the risk of accidents or injuries associated with working around rotating parts.
Improved Productivity
The repair, replacement and maintenance costs are nothing compared to the lost production time when your equipment is down. What is the point of equipment when it’s not generating revenue? When your machines are down, they cannot perform their intended tasks and generate revenue for your business.
Efficient Lubrication
Unlike manual lubrication methods, these systems apply grease while the machine is in action. When bearings are lubricated while running, all internal surfaces of the bearings are continuously exposed, allowing for a more effective and thorough grease application. This will also contribute to enhanced equipment performance and reduce disruptions to operations.
Contaminant Reduction
Filters are an important component of automated lubrication systems. Its primary function is separating impurities and particulate matter from the oil, grease or air circulating within the system. These filters ensure that only clean and pure lubricants reach the lubrication points.
GCH Offers Electrically Powered Automatic Lubrication System for Grinders
At GCH Tool Group, our ALS consists of a reservoir, a pump and a control unit and a built-in monitor that alerts operators when the lubricant level is low or when there is a malfunction with the system. What’s more, GCH Tool Group’s automatic lubricators are also programmable, so operators can set specific intervals for lubricant dispensing.
An automated lubrication system is the upgrade your grinder needs—integrate it into your grinder and watch how it is going to improve your grinder’s performance. No more bearing failure due to improper lubrication, increase the safety of your workers and boost your productivity. Contact us today!
