Slew Bearing Grease: Everything You Need to Know
Slew Bearing Grease: Everything You Need to Know
If you are in the market for a slew bearing, then you already know how important it is to keep your equipment running smoothly and efficiently. One of the key components to ensuring that your slew bearing is working properly is to make sure that it is adequately lubricated. Proper lubrication helps to reduce friction, which can cause wear and tear on your equipment over time.
One of the most important aspects of lubricating your slew bearing is choosing the right grease. There are many different types of grease available, and it can be difficult to know which one is the right choice for your equipment. Some key factors to consider when choosing a grease include the operating temperature range of your equipment, the load and speed of your equipment, and the type of environment in which your equipment operates.
Another important consideration when it comes to slew bearing grease is the frequency with which you need to apply it. Over time, grease can break down and lose its effectiveness, so it is important to follow the manufacturer’s recommended lubrication schedule to ensure that your equipment is always properly lubricated. By taking the time to choose the right grease and apply it correctly and regularly, you can help to extend the life of your equipment and minimize the risk of downtime and costly repairs.
Fundamentals of Slew Bearing Grease
Slew bearing grease is a specialized lubricant that is used to reduce friction and wear between the various components of a slew bearing. The grease is typically applied to the raceway, worm gearing, and worm shaft tapered roller bearings of the slew drive. In this section, we will discuss the composition and properties of slew bearing grease.
Composition
Slew bearing grease is typically composed of a base oil and a thickener. The base oil is the primary lubricating agent and provides the necessary lubrication to the bearing components. The thickener is added to the base oil to give the grease its characteristic consistency and to prevent it from leaking out of the bearing. Other additives may also be included in the grease to enhance its performance, such as anti-wear agents, rust inhibitors, and extreme pressure additives.
Properties
Slew bearing grease has several important properties that make it well-suited for use in slew bearings. One of the most important properties is its ability to withstand high temperatures and pressures. Slew bearings are often subjected to high loads and speeds, which can generate a significant amount of heat and pressure. The grease must be able to withstand these conditions without breaking down or losing its lubricating properties.
Another important property of slew bearing grease is its ability to resist water and other contaminants. Slew bearings are often used in harsh environments, such as offshore drilling rigs or construction sites, where they may be exposed to water, dust, and other contaminants. The grease must be able to resist these contaminants and maintain its lubricating properties.
In addition, slew bearing grease must be compatible with the materials used in the bearing components. Grease that is not compatible with the materials can cause corrosion and other damage to the components. Therefore, it is important to use the grease recommended by the manufacturer and to follow the recommended lubrication intervals.
Overall, the composition and properties of slew bearing grease play a critical role in the performance and longevity of slew bearings. By using the right grease and following the recommended maintenance procedures, you can ensure that your slew bearings operate smoothly and efficiently for many years to come.
Application Guidelines
Greasing Intervals
Proper lubrication is essential to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your slew bearing. The recommended greasing interval for your bearing will depend on various factors such as the bearing size, application, operating conditions, and the type of grease used. As a general rule of thumb, most manufacturers recommend grease re-lubrication periods between 50 and 100 hours of operation for four-point contact Gothic arch slewing ring bearings [1].
It is important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for greasing intervals closely. Over-greasing can cause the bearing to overheat, leading to premature failure. Under-greasing, on the other hand, can cause excessive wear and tear, resulting in reduced bearing life. Regular inspection of the bearing can help determine if the greasing interval needs to be adjusted.
Application Techniques
Proper application techniques are critical to ensure that the grease is distributed evenly throughout the bearing. Before applying grease, clean the bearing and surrounding areas thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. Apply the grease using a grease gun or other suitable lubrication equipment.
To ensure that the grease is distributed evenly, apply it in small amounts at regular intervals around the circumference of the bearing. Avoid over-greasing any one area of the bearing. Once the bearing is fully greased, rotate it several times to ensure that the grease is evenly distributed.
In conclusion, following the manufacturer’s recommended greasing intervals and proper application techniques can help ensure optimal performance and longevity of your slew bearing. Regular inspection and maintenance can also help identify any issues before they become major problems.
[1] Source: http://www.walker-process.com/pdf/06_slewing.pdf
Performance Factors
When selecting the right lubrication method for your slewing bearing, there are several performance factors to consider. Two of the most important factors are temperature range and load capacity.
Temperature Range
The temperature range of the grease is important because it affects the viscosity of the lubricant. If the temperature is too high, the grease can become too thin, reducing its ability to provide adequate lubrication. On the other hand, if the temperature is too low, the grease can become too thick, making it difficult to apply and reducing its effectiveness.
When selecting a grease for your slewing bearing, consider the temperature range that your equipment will be operating in. Look for greases that have a wide temperature range and can maintain their viscosity in extreme temperatures. For example, FHD Bearings recommends using a high-temperature grease that can withstand temperatures up to 150°C.
Load Capacity
Load capacity is another important performance factor to consider when selecting a grease for your slewing bearing. The load capacity of the grease refers to its ability to support the weight of the equipment and distribute the load evenly across the bearing surfaces.
When selecting a grease for your slewing bearing, look for greases that have a high load capacity and can handle heavy loads without breaking down. For example, SKF recommends using a grease with EP additives that can handle shock loads and provide excellent load-carrying capacity.
By considering these performance factors, you can select the right grease for your slewing bearing and ensure optimal performance and durability of your rotating machinery.
Maintenance and Inspection
Inspection Intervals
Regular inspection of the slew bearing is essential for ensuring its smooth operation and preventing premature failure. The frequency of inspection intervals depends on several factors such as the operating conditions, the type of grease used, and the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Typically, it is recommended to inspect the slew bearing every six months or after 1000 hours of operation, whichever comes first. However, if the operating conditions are harsh, or the bearing is exposed to contaminants, the inspection interval should be reduced accordingly.
Maintenance Procedures
During the inspection, the following maintenance procedures should be carried out:
- Visual Inspection: Check for any signs of wear, corrosion, or damage to the bearing components, such as the raceway, the worm gearing, and the worm shaft tapered roller bearings. If any damage is found, it should be repaired or replaced immediately.
- Lubrication Inspection: Check the grease level and quality in the bearing. Ensure that the grease is free from contaminants such as water, dirt, or metal particles. If the grease is contaminated, the bearing should be cleaned and re-lubricated.
- Torque Inspection: Check the torque of the mounting bolts to ensure that they are tightened to the manufacturer’s specifications. Loose bolts can cause the bearing to shift, leading to premature wear and failure.
- Environmental Inspection: Check the operating conditions of the bearing, such as temperature, humidity, and exposure to corrosive substances. Ensure that the bearing is installed in a clean and dry environment, away from sources of heat, moisture, and contaminants.
By following these maintenance procedures, you can ensure the longevity and reliability of your slew bearing. Regular inspections and maintenance will also help you identify any potential problems before they cause significant damage or downtime.
Selection Criteria
When selecting the right slew bearing grease, there are a few key criteria to consider. These include industry standards and compatibility with materials.
Industry Standards
It is important to choose a slew bearing grease that meets industry standards. This will ensure that the grease is suitable for the application and will provide the necessary protection and lubrication. Some common industry standards for slew bearing grease include ISO 6743-9, DIN 51502, and ASTM D4950.
Compatibility with Materials
Another important consideration when selecting slew bearing grease is compatibility with materials. The grease should be compatible with the materials used in the bearing, as well as any seals or other components. It is important to check the manufacturer’s recommendations and consult with a lubrication expert if necessary.
When selecting slew bearing grease, it is also important to consider factors such as temperature, speed, and load. These factors can affect the performance of the grease and should be taken into account when selecting the right product.
Overall, selecting the right slew bearing grease requires careful consideration of a range of factors. By taking the time to understand these factors and choosing a product that meets your needs, you can ensure that your bearing operates smoothly and efficiently.
