Chain maintenance and lubrication

Chain maintenance and lubrication

The life of a chain is dependent on correct and adequate re-lubricating. As a consequence of the oscillating movements of the chain link, the initial lubricant is used up in the course of time depending on the operating conditions. If the lubricant is re-applied regularly, the chain is mainly within the range of fluid and mixed friction. An absence of of lubricant or badly selected re-lubricants cause dry friction, which leads to the formation of the fretting corrosion and increased wear of the chain.

Relubricants should possess the following characteristics - depending on the application.
- Adhesiveness
- Compatibility with initial lubricant
- Corrosion protection
- Load-bearing capacity of lubricant film
- Ability to creep
- Lubrication of emergency running
- High viscosity and simultaneous ability to flow
- High temperature stability
- Water-repellent
- Resistance to media etc.

Lubrication techniques

1. Manual lubrication

Using a paint brush, oil can or spray can for slow-running chain drives

2. Drip lubrication

Using drip oilers, automatic lubricant feed or central lubrication units at medium chain speeds.

The lubricant product must be able to penetrate into the bearing area of the chain. To make sure, the lubricant must be applied deliberately to the gap between inner and outer plates.

3. Oil bath lubrication

Using enclosed chain boxes and if necessary additional centrifugal disc for fast running chain drives

Important recommendations for lubrication
The chain drive should be cleaned with a brush before the lubricant is applied to enable the lubrication to settle. On top of it, the surface of the chain can be cleaned with cleaners naphtha or petroleum. Full submersion and washing out is not recommended.

Connecting elements like connecting links, when supplied separately, have only been immersion-protected against rust and must be greased upon installation. If the connecting links are supplied together with the chains, they will have been greased with the same lubricant as the chains.