Chain lubrication – Best Practices For Drives and Conveyors

We all know that the lubrication of industrial chains is critical. Regular maintenance and lubrication are preconditions for low wear and long service life of the chain drive. The maintenance and lubrication frequency, as well as the related re-lubrication, are determined by the operating conditions of the application.
The right lubricant and optimised lubrication practices increase the life of the chains several times over by reducing wear, increasing corrosion protection and effective noise damping.

Even though many of the low-speed chains run successfully, with little or no oil, routine lubrication on the production line greatly extends the service life of the equipment through multiple ways.

• Reduced friction and wear
• Energy Efficiency
• Enhanced Performance
• Noise Reduction
• Corrosion Prevention
• Temperature Regulation

How are industrial chains lubricated?

Manual Lubrication:

• Brush Lubrication: A brush or similar applicator is used to manually apply lubricant to the chain. This method allows for precise control of lubricant application and is often used in applications where over-lubrication must be avoided.
• Drip Lubrication: Lubricant is dripped onto the chain at specified intervals. This method is relatively simple and cost-effective but may not provide as consistent lubrication as other methods.

Automatic Lubrication:

• Chain Lubrication Systems: Automatic lubrication systems are designed to apply a precise amount of lubricant at regular intervals. These systems can include spray, drip, or brush-type applicators and are often used in high-speed or continuous operation applications.
• Centralized Lubrication Systems: In some industrial setups, centralized lubrication systems are used to supply lubricant to multiple points, including chain lubrication points. These systems can be programmed for specific lubrication intervals and quantities

Routine Maintenance and checking for binding

Testing for binding in conveyor chains is important to ensure that the chain operates smoothly and efficiently, as binding can lead to increased wear, reduced productivity, and potential damage to the chain and associated equipment. Here are some methods and steps for testing for binding in conveyor chains:

• Visual Inspection: Start with a visual inspection of the entire conveyor chain system. Look for any visible signs of misalignment, wear, damage, or foreign objects that might be causing binding.
• Manual Rotation Test: One of the simplest methods is to manually rotate the conveyor chain. If you notice resistance, uneven movement, or areas where the chain seems to be catching or binding, this can indicate a problem.
• Load Testing: Apply a load to the conveyor system to simulate real operating conditions. Ensure the load is evenly distributed along the length of the chain. Monitor the chain's movement under load for any signs of binding, such as jerky motion or excessive resistance.
• Alignment Check: Verify that all components of the conveyor system, including rollers, sprockets, guides, and the chain itself, are correctly aligned. Misalignment can lead to binding issues.
• Tension Check: Ensure that the conveyor chain is properly tensioned. Excessive tension or slack can cause binding. Refer to the manufacturer's guidelines for the recommended tensioning procedure.
• Clearance Inspection: Check for adequate clearance between the chain and any nearby equipment or structures. Insufficient clearance can lead to binding as the chain may rub against obstacles.
• Pin and Roller Wear: Inspect the chain pins and rollers for wear. Excessive wear can cause the chain to bind as the rollers may not rotate smoothly. Replace any worn components as needed.
• Lubrication: Ensure that the conveyor chain is adequately lubricated. Lack of lubrication can increase friction and lead to binding. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for lubrication intervals and methods.
• Material Buildup: Look for the accumulation of debris, product residue, or material buildup on the chain. Such buildup can create uneven surfaces and cause binding. Regularly clean the chain to prevent this issue.
• Chain Condition: Examine the overall condition of the conveyor chain, including its links, plates, and attachments. Any damaged or deformed components can contribute to binding and should be replaced.
• Operational Testing: Run the conveyor system through its normal operating cycles and monitor for any irregularities, such as sudden stops, jerking, or unusual noises. These can be indicative of binding issues.
• Thermal Expansion: In applications with significant temperature fluctuations, consider the effects of thermal expansion and contraction on the conveyor chain. Expansion and contraction can lead to binding if not properly accounted for in the system design.

If, during any of these tests or inspections, you discover binding issues or suspect that there may be a problem, it's essential to address the root cause promptly. Correcting binding issues can prevent damage, reduce downtime, and improve the overall performance and reliability of the conveyor system.