Is Overgreasing Dangerous?
Anshuman Agrawal (MLE TP, MLT-1 CP)
ESG Thought Leader | Vision To Abate 860Gg of CO2E by 2034 | Decarbonizing the Lubricant Sector | Circular Economy Champion
Greasing is an important process that ensures the smooth functioning of machines. Let’s understand these two aspects first - Overgreasing and Undergreasing. To determine which of these is more problematic could be difficult but we can definitely decide which one is more damaging. Too much grease can generate excessive heat in the bearing and may result in seal failure. When the lip seals rupture because of over greasing, it allows the harmful contaminants to enter the bearing housing. This would create excessive pressure and may collapse the bearing race. On the other hand, not putting enough grease may cause damage to the rotating parts. Undergreasing allows contaminants to enter the load zones. We can say that it's better to avoid both aspects of over and under greasing.?
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How to determine the amount of grease a bearing needs?
The factor responsible for determining the right amount of grease depends on the dimensions of the bearing or its housing. Greasing must be done based on proper calculations. A formula that is used commonly is as follows:
The outside diameter of the bearing is multiplied by the width (in inches), then multiply the answer by 0.114. This would give you the amount of grease in ounces required for that particular bearing.?
For example -?
If the outside diameter of a bearing is 3 inches and the width of a bearing is 0.5 inches, then
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3 X 0.5 = 1.5
1.5 X 0.114 = 0.17?
Thus, The amount of grease needed is 0.17 ounces or 4.8 grams.
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How to solve the problem of Overgreasing?
After having a grip on how much grease to put, try to master the frequency. Take help from various tables and charts available for determining the frequency. Calibrating the grease guns could be a simple and easy step to determine the correct volume of grease. It is very important to discontinue greasing when any abnormal pressure is encountered. Manual grease guns used in the industry have a few disadvantages. The poor control of grease guns may lead to over/under lubrication. Because they are low in cost, easy to use, and allow the technicians to inspect the equipment during the tasks, industries prefer using manual grease guns.
Setting up a maintenance program could be a game-changer. Keep a track of each grease point and schedule maintenance & inspections for the same. Initially, it may take some time and effort but the end result would be great and impactful.
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Specialist engineering & maintenance trainer
2 年A great summary. It is amazing how many people think that pumping a bearing full of grease is a good thing. When you ask them what the right amount is, a common answer I hear is "until it comes out the seal, then you know it's clean". Maybe for some bearings.....
Best Practice Motor Management & Return Energy Savings, Implement Electrical Preventative Predictive Maintenance.
2 年Lubrication needs precision, means the person in charge needs to be trained. A high number of motor failures are lubrication issue. I did the SKF lubrication course and learnt a lot. It's not a part time role!
CFM?, CAMA?,CMRP?& Asset management at ADNOC
2 年Thanks for sharing
Innovator in Lubrication Optimization
2 年True optimization can be achieved by analysis of properly obtained inservice grease samples from an operating machine. ASTM D7718 provides guidance for sampling, and ASTM D7918 outlines the analysis options and the standards for performance.
Project manager, engineering & maintanance- Sundyne Pump & spare part Supplier, installation & Repairment Supervisor
2 年Useful ??????