Methods for applying grease

By Er.Laxman Singh Sankhla B.E.Mech., Chartered Engineer Jodhpur, India Mail ID: laxman9992001@yahoo.co.in

Methods for applying grease Grease can be applied through centralized application systems, single-point auto application systems, hand packing and, the more common, manual grease gun. Grease should be packed into the bearing so that it gets between the rolling elements the rollers or balls. For tapered roller bearings, forcing grease through the bearing from the large end to the small end will ensure proper distribution. Grease can be easily packed into small- and medium-size bearings by hand.

In shops where bearings are frequently regreased, a mechanical grease packer that forces grease through the bearing under pressure may be appropriate. Regardless of the method used, after packing the internal areas of the bearing, a small amount of grease should also be smeared on the outside of the rollers or balls. As the grease temperature rises, its viscosity decreases and becomes thinner. This can reduce the lubricating effect while increasing leakage of the grease from the bearing. It may also cause the grease components to separate, causing the grease to break down. Also, as the bearing heats up, the grease will expand somewhat and be purged from the bearing. However, in low speed applications where temperature is not an issue, the housing can be entirely filled with grease. This safeguards against the entry of contaminants.

For best results, there should be ample space in the housing to allow room for excess grease to be thrown from the bearing. Applications using grease lubrication should have a grease fitting and a vent at opposite ends of the housing near the top. A drain plug should be located near the bottom of the housing to allow purging the old grease from the bearing. 11.7.1 Single- and Multi-point Lubricators Electromechanical powered single-point lubricators deliver periodic grease or oil to bearings, chains, guideways and other industrial equipment components. Multi-point lubricators are a centralized lubrication system capable of delivering grease to up to six lubrication points. 11.8 TYPES OF GREASE APPLICATORS

Grease cups

Air pressure grease gun

Manual pressure grease gun Grease should be chosen for its consistency at the operating temperature, when it should be fluid enough to gradually flow to the bearing. Very soft grease often churns and generates heat. A ball bearing, instead of being submerged in grease, flakes off the grease as it rotates.