We currently use Schaffer's Silver Streak oil for our trunnion and girth gear lubrication. This stuff is super messy. I have been thinking of swapping to something different possibly going to graphite blocks. Could I have some opinions on this? And also what you are using? Thanks
Read our primer articles on Grease Guns and Oil Sight Glasses.
Replies sorted oldest to newest
I worked with an OSB plant up in Canada that was using the graphite blocks for the same application and having good success with it (and it doesn't get near as messy). To be honest though, I'm not sure that the Schaffer's Silver Streak is viscous enough for that type of application to begin with. Can you share the size, speed and operating temp?
Ambient temp, about 72' length and 13' diameter. About 10 RPM
@EPolk posted:Ambient temp, about 72' length and 13' diameter. About 10 RPM
Looks like something around an ISO 1100 viscosity grade is what you want for optimal lubrication on there (If you are sticking with an oil or grease). If you can include a picture or two I'll confirm the calculations match what I am thinking in my head as to the setup.
I would like to get away from oil if there is something better. The oil is messy.
@EPolk posted:I would like to get away from oil if there is something better. The oil is messy.
I don't blame you one bit. I know guys that have had great success with the graphite blocks, and those would obviously be a cleaner alternative. There are greases out there as well that would do what you need, but it could turn just as messy depending on a bunch of factors. Are the girth gear and trunnion bearings separated (are they different lube points)?
The girth gear is lubricated by the same system and same lubrication. But at different points.