Typically, when mine operators are asked what they are doing for their lubrication program, the response is generally along the lines of scheduled preventive maintenance (PM) and used oil analysis provided by the equipment manufacturer. Unfortunately, these activities alone do not constitute an effective program. This article will explore lubrication strategies for “big iron,” which includes large earthmovers such as rope shovels, hydraulic shovels, draglines and bucket-wheel excavators.
Dust and water in bearings lead to early-life destruction. Therefore, protection methods against ingress are needed. This article introduces several protection methods and reviews shaft seal designs suited to contaminated conditions.
You could tar your roof with it. It sticks to everything. It spreads like cancer. You thought you were getting rid of it with the oil change and flush, but it is back again – lurking in your oil and gripping the insides of your machine – sludge and varnish.
It is widely understood that oxidation is the primary mechanism of lubricant degradation. It is also widely known that oxidized oil can’t effectively lubricate machines; oil analysis tests like Total Acid Number and FTIR-Oxidation can reveal abnormal oxidation. Less widely understood is how these tests monitor the onset and propagation of oxidation, and the significance of the results.
Hydraulic equipment owners and operators expect superior performance from their investment. When it comes to their business, they are looking for the three “E”s: economy, efficiency and environment. As regulatory requirements increase and equipment design changes, hydraulic oil technology must continue to evolve to keep pace.
