Rolling bearing lubrication is a topic of considerable interest, accuracy and importance in the design, operating and maintenance of any machine or system employing rolling bearings. It can also represent a major cost item in any production system. Therefore, it is important to understand the lubrication requirements for any given application, and to achieve the best lubrication method for that application, with optimal cost and performance criteria being met.
The purpose of rolling bearing lubrication is to reduce friction and wear on bearing components in order to prolong life and improve performance. Many different methods of achieving this goal can be applied, ranging from manual lubrication to automated lubrication systems, and from grease lubrication to oil lubrication. The ideal lubrication method for any application is a function of bearing components, speed, operating temperatures, environmental conditions, space limitations and cost considerations.
Advantages of Manual Lubrication:
Manual lubrication is the simplest and often most cost-effective method of lubrication. The cost of manual lubrication depends on the labor costs associated with maintenance rather than the cost of lubricants. Manual lubrication also has the advantage of allowing the technician to check the bearings for problems such as excessive wear, contamination and misalignment.
Disadvantages of Manual Lubrication:
Manual lubrication can be time-consuming and labour-intensive, and often requires frequent lubrication in order to maintain optimal performance. Additionally, there is a risk that lubricant may be over- or undertreated or contaminants such as dirt or dust may be introduced into the bearing, leading to premature bearing failure.
Advantages of Automated Lubrication Systems:
Automated lubrication systems provide an efficient method of lubricating rolling bearings, with minimal human input required. Automated lubrication systems are often able to reduce labour costs, as well as the amount of lubricant used due to their precise metering. Additionally, automated systems can provide feedback on the addition of lubricant and the lubrication cycle, which can help to ensure optimal lubrication and reduce the risk of bearing failure.
Disadvantages of Automated Lubrication Systems:
Automated lubrication systems require a significant upfront cost in order to retrofit them to existing machinery, as well as ongoing maintenance costs. Additionally, automated systems may not always be suitable due to space constraints, and in some instances manual lubrication may be the most cost-effective and practical lubrication solution.
Advantages of Grease Lubrication:
Grease lubrication is an effective and reliable solution for many applications. Grease is generally able to resist degradation at higher temperatures than oil, and it will adhere to bearing components better than oil. Grease also has a longer shelf life compared to oil, making it more cost-effective, and it can help to reduce the amount of contaminants entering the bearing.
Disadvantages of Grease Lubrication:
Grease is not able to dissipate heat as well as oil and it is consequently not as effective in high-temperature applications. Additionally, grease lubrication can require more frequent application than oil lubrication, and it is not as effective in protecting against corrosion or reducing friction in cold temperatures.
Advantages of Oil Lubrication:
Oil lubrication is able to dissipate heat effectively, making it suitable for many high-temperature operations. Oil is also less prone to oxidation than grease, and it can provide superior protection against corrosion. Oil is also relatively inexpensive and is able to lubricate more effectively in cold temperatures.
Disadvantages of Oil Lubrication:
Oil lubrication requires frequent monitoring and/or changing of the lubricant, which can make it more labour-intensive and costly than other methods of lubrication. Additionally, oil is physically not as effective in adhering to bearing surfaces compared to grease, which can reduce its effectiveness in certain applications.
