Lubrication Basics
Selecting the Right Grease or Oil
Lubricants protect components from wear and corrosion, making them crucial to design. However, using the wrong lubricant can be detrimental.
Grease or Oil?
The first decision is whether to use grease or oil. While oil is necessary for some applications, such as sintered bearings and precision instruments, grease often offers cost and performance benefits, staying in place better and requiring less exacting part fitment.
Operating Temperatures
Your lubricant must be stable at high temperatures and fluid at low temperatures. Some lubricants, like perfluoropolyethers, are better suited for extreme temperatures.
Load Considerations
For most applications, preventing wear is key. Higher viscosity oils handle heavier loads, while extreme pressure additives may be needed for boundary lubrication situations.
Design Goals
Lubricants do more than prevent wear; they can control precision motion, reduce noise and vibration, lower torque, and reduce temperatures.
Delivery and Handling
Correct application during manufacturing is critical. Automated dispensing can ensure the right amount and cleanliness of the lubricant.
Material Compatibility
Certain lubricants can damage plastics, elastomers, and metals. Always test compatibility by assessing physical properties after exposure.
Operating Environment
Consider factors like corrosion, dust, exposure to water or solvents, temperature cycling, and vacuum conditions when choosing a lubricant.
Component Life Requirement
In applications where servicing is difficult, such as in space, a lubricant must last for the component’s entire life expectancy.
Application Requirements
Different devices require different lubricants, and specialized lubricants exist for various components like bearings, gears, and switches. Always choose a lubricant designed for the specific application and consider any industry-specific constraints.
For more information,we are ready to assist. Contact us at following email address for help in selecting the right lubricant for your application.
info@tle.com.pk
