Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/75471
TECHNOLOGY Single-point automatic lubricators can be gas driven (left) or electro-mechanical driven (right). These lubricators can deliver the proper pre-set amount of lubricant for bearings and can prevent too much or too little lubricant being used. Automatic lubrication technology Sometimes, bearings will have to be lubricated periodically and, when they are, problems may arise, especially when they are lubricated manually. Bearings must receive the right lubri- cant in the right amount at the right time to minimize wear enough) lubrication may be applied; lubricant consumption may increase due to overuse; and maintenance time, energy, and costs can spiral. Single-point automatic lubrication technology is becoming more widespread as a practical delivery system to prevent the - matic lubricators also can be incorporated into a three-barrier - Single-point automatic lubricators in service 24/7 can serve as timely and accurate hands-off solutions to deliver systems have even been tested and approved for use in mines and underground areas, among other applications.) Standard versions usually will be offered either as gas-driven feed types or electro mechanical-driven systems and engineered for re- usability. They can especially come in handy at hard-to-access or potentially hazardous lubrication points. user-friendly features that can make life easier along the line. When evaluating options, users should consider whether the lubricator: over long periods of time to minimize time and effort; - sual inspection of dispense rate, enabling timely refills to be made as needed; and application and supplied ready-to-use to avoid potentially detrimental mismatches. The ramifications of harsh operating environments encoun- tered by conveyors in the aggregate industry have paved the way for new thinking to address — and remedy — age-old problems. The latest innovations in bearing-related technol- ogy carry new solutions to help keep lubricant in and con- taminants out of critical bearings, increase conveyor uptime, minimize lubricant use, significantly reduce maintenance time and profitability. AM James A. Oliver is director-sales support engineering for SKF USA Inc. He can be reached at 267-436-6516 or via e-mail at Joe Esmoer is manager, industry specialists for mining and metals for SKF USA Inc. He can be reached at 520-749-6618 or via e-mail at AGGREGATES MANAGER DIGITAL EXCLUSIVE August 2012 41C