Grease drying and hardening is one of the common lubrication problems, which not only affects the normal operation of machine components, but also intensifies wear and energy consumption. This paper will discuss the main causes of grease drying, possible harm and effective countermeasures.
1. The cause of grease drying
Grease drying and hardening is usually caused by the following factors:
Contamination: The mixing of dust, dirt and other impurities will cause the performance of the grease to deteriorate.
Incompatible greases: The mixing of different types of greases will destroy their colloidal structure and accelerate the oil separation process.
High temperature volatilization: Greases prepared with low viscosity base oils are more likely to volatilize at high temperatures, resulting in hardening of the grease.
Base oil oxidation: After the base oil oxidation, the grease will also undergo a similar oxidation process.
Overheating of machine parts: bearing filling too much grease, mechanical conditions caused by overheating and other problems will cause the grease to dry.
The base oil is extruded: The base oil is separated from the thickener by rolling shear of bearings and gears.
Hydrostatic extrusion: Under continuous pressure, hydrostatic force will cause the grease to separate.
Vibration and centrifugal force: Prolonged vibration or centrifugal force will exacerbate the oil separation phenomenon of grease.
2. Dry grease hazards
When grease dries, it can cause the following problems:
Blockage: Hardening of the grease can cause blockage of the lubrication system.
Overheating: Poor lubrication will cause the machine to run too hot.
Increased friction: Hardening of grease will increase the friction resistance of mechanical parts.
Increased energy consumption: poor lubrication will increase the consumption of mechanical power.
3. Strategies for dealing with grease dryness
In order to effectively deal with the problem of grease drying, the following measures can be taken:
Select the right grease: Select the right grease according to the specific requirements of the equipment, and use it according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
Proper filling: Avoid excessive filling of grease, so as not to cause overheating.
Dust and anti-impurities: when storing and using grease, pay attention to dust and prevent impurities from mixing, and ensure that it is sealed after use.
Avoid grease mixing: prevent the mixing of different types of grease.
Do not recommend adding base oil: Avoid adding base oil directly to greases that have hardened or thickened, as the lack of necessary homogenizing treatment may further deteriorate the performance of the grease.
Correct storage: After taking out the grease, the surface of the grease in the container should be smoothed to prevent the base oil from penetrating into the pit due to gravity and affecting the quality of the product. T
he above measures can effectively prevent the grease from drying and hardening, ensure the normal operation of machinery and equipment, and reduce maintenance costs.
