Introduction to Oil Mist Lubrication Systems—5 Precautions for Using Oil Mist Lubrication

Thread Content

An oil mist lubrication system generates oil mist by the main unit, which is then distributed to each lubrication point through pipes. As mentioned earlier, although the particles of oil mist are very small (typically 1–5 microns), their physical properties remain those of a liquid; in other words, as the oil mist travels through the pipes, some of it re-condenses into lubricating oil. This results in the mixture of oil mist and condensed lubricating oil flowing through the pipes. If these pipes are laid alongside ordinary pipes using standard methods, any deformation in the pipes can cause the condensed lubricating oil to block them. Therefore, when installing pipes for oil mist lubrication, it is necessary to ensure a certain slope (usually 1:120). In other words, for every 6 meters the pipeline extends, the height increases by 50 millimeters); the main unit is at the lowest point, ensuring that the condensed lubricating oil can flow back into the main unit smoothly. Furthermore, once the oil mist enters the bearing chamber, it condenses into an oil film on the surface of the lubrication points; the excess lubricant and oil mist are then discharged from the bearing chamber through the drain port. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that the pipes for the entry and discharge of oil mist remain unobstructed. Sufficient lubricating oil must be available inside the oil mist lubrication unit (an alarm is usually triggered when there is a lack of oil), and other electrical control components and seals should be maintained on a regular basis.