Introduction
Chain Oils are very important components in the industries that deal with heavy mechanical loads and high temperature environments. In those situations, chain oil lubrication becomes a key aspect of the process. Very common industries that require chain lubrication processes are manufacturing, automotive and food processing industries.
Types of Temperature of Chain Oils
Chain oils have two types of temperatures which are as follows:
- Flash Point: Flash point temperature of chain oils should be 20°C -30°C lower than the flash point temperature of the lubricating oils. Flash point is a temperature limit at which the combination of vapor and atmosphere comes in the contact of flames and leads to fire instantly under the delineation.
- Working Temperature: Working temperature is the limit of temperature that meets the actual working conditions. It generates less amount of carbon deposition and volatilization.
Benefits of Chain Oils
Lubricating chain oils not only reduces the friction but also increases the lifespan and durability of both the chain and its sprockets. Following are some benefits of chain lubrication:
- Protection from Rust: There is an oil film that protects the chains from rust and increases their lifespan.
- Minimization of Wear: Proper lubrication lessens the friction between parts like rollers and bushings. Those parts are considered to be critical areas for wear.
- Improvement in the Performance: Lubrication of chains also lessens the noise coming from the machine, reduces energy consumption and does not require regular or frequent maintenance.
Aspects to be Considered while Choosing Correct Chain Oils
There are few aspects that should be considered while selecting the correct chain oils to ensure precise performance and extension of life of the chains. Those points are as follows:
- Evaporation Rate: High temperatures tend to increase the evaporation of lubricating oils that results into expiry of oil and weakening of the chains. This happens when the temperature exceeds 22°C. In such conditions, oils that have a slow evaporation rate can be more useful. Choosing oils that are formulated to bear high temperatures can reduce the risk of oil degradation.
- Cost-Effectiveness: High performance oils are proven to be cost effective for a longer period of time despite its higher cost initially. These oils are prepared in a way that they can bear high temperatures, maintain their lubrication properties and reduce evaporation which makes it more effective for an extended period. Choosing these oils can reduce replacing the oil frequently and maintenance. This will help to increase the lifespan of chains and reduce the cost in the long term.
- Pitfalls of Over Lubrication: Over lubrication is one of common yet critical problems faced while oiling. Excessive lubrication on chains can be harmful in a high temperature environment. It can also lead to oil accumulation, gumming and deposits formation on the chains. Thus, it is important to get the right balance of lubrication for maintaining the performance of the chains and reducing the redundant issues related to maintenance.
- Reduction in Power Consumption with Correct Lubrication: If the chains are properly lubricated and operate with less friction, it reduces the power consumption too. On the other hand, if the chains are not lubricated inadequately, it increases the friction and requires more energy. Knowing the right lubricating properties can help in saving energy, enhancing efficiency and reducing energy costs.
- Difference in Evaporation Rates at High Temperatures: It is important to keep in mind the different evaporation rates of various oils while choosing them for high temperatures. Some oils evaporate on temperatures above 250°C while some evaporate on temperatures below 220°C. Having an understanding about these differences can help you to choose the correct oil and improve the performance of the chains. It will also reduce the need for frequent lubrication.
Requirements for High Temperature Chain Oils
Generally, requirements for both high temperature chain oils and standard oils are the same. Both types of oils demand a minimum amount of friction and wear. However, chain oils require special kind of base fluids and additives to give the best performance at high temperatures. Another key requirement for chain oils are good penetration ability and strong adhesiveness. As both the properties are opposite to each other, it is important to maintain a balance among them while applying those oils. Lubrication of inner parts of the chains is necessary to prevent it from wearing out while adhesion must be strong to avoid drip-off losses. This is important for chain oils due to their dependency on viscosity and temperatures. Also, loss of evaporation and appearance of residues are important for high temperature applications. This is because losses of evaporation lead to longer period of relubrication and reduce contaminations in exhaust systems. The residues after this evaporation needs to be smooth and flowing to prevent the blockage in the chain links. These residues should also be able to dissolve again in fresh oil. Also, flash points should be kept at safe distance from operating temperatures to avoid ignition and fire.
Challenges of Chain Oils
There are a set of challenges one can face if the chain oils are not lubricated properly. These challenges are:
- High Temperatures: Chains in various appliances such as baker ovens and industrial ovens operate on very high temperatures and heat. Thus, they require proper lubrication of oils.
- Dust and Water Spray: There are high chances of contaminants degrading the performance of chains and increasing the wear.
- Need of Penetration: Lubricants need to be penetrated in a way that it reaches the inner friction points effectively.
- Drip-Free Applications: Industries such as food the processing industry require quick action against excessive lubricant dripping. Avoiding this issue can be critical in those industries.
Take Away
This is the brief explanation about how to choose the chain oils correctly and why it is important in various industries. We hope this information will be effective for you. Please let us know through your valuable feedback and the suggestion in the drop box.