Industrial gearboxes perform under extreme conditions of heat and heavy loads. In the process of working, gearboxes often are filled with dust, debris, and water. Without adequate protection, the gears can wear prematurely, and there is a chance of equipment downtime. To combat the difficult conditions, it is necessary to use lubricants for gearboxes. There is a risk of changing the parts regularly if there is no proper maintenance and change in gear oil frequently. Read on to know different kinds of gear lubricants that should be used for maintaining the excellent condition of industrial equipment.
Gear Oil and its Applications
In heavy industries, gearboxes play an essential role in the production of goods. While the primary application of gear oil is in transmissions for automobiles, these oils are made to be used pretty much anywhere a gearbox can be found. Gear oils help reduce the friction between the teeth of gearboxes and avoid the damages between gears, leading to system degradation. Dedicated gear oils contain additives and protecting compounds and are tailored specifically for industrial usage.
Gear Oil Selection Criteria
To choose the best oil for your gearbox, following some of the criteria below is vital.
- The viscosity of Gear Oil
- Additives in oil
- Base Oil Types
Different Kinds of Gear Lubricants
Like most oils, gear oils also come in various types with additives and are designed to handle critical situations for gearboxes.
1. Extreme Pressure Oils
Extreme pressure oils are designed to withstand the high pressure generated in the gearboxes while running. In these oils, there are many additives and can be hazardous for the machines if not handled properly. The additives used in extreme oils are chlorine or sulfur, which can harm some metals in machines. It is recommended to use extreme oils only when insisted by the manufacturer as the metals of the machine can be easily affected by additives in the oil.
2. R&O Gear Oils
R&O stands for Rust and oxidation. These oils are designed to reduce rust, oxidation, and corrosion within the gearboxes. R&O oils are best for protecting gearboxes from rust and, at the same time, extend the life of gears.
3. Synthetic Gear Oils
Synthetic oils are made of polyalphaolefins or polyglycols and have additives that give maximum protection for gearboxes. Gearboxes mostly operate at low or high temperatures and often lead to wear and tear. Synthetic oils prevent rust inside the gearboxes, and these oils can be used in unusual environmental conditions.
4. Rust Prevent Gear Oils
Rust prevent gear oils are mineral-based or petroleum-based oils used at normal or colder or warmer temperatures. The main benefit of these oils is that they extend the life of gearboxes running at extremely high temperatures.
5. Compounded Gear Lubricants
Compounded gear lubricants are lubricants mixed with synthetic fatty acids to increase strength and lubricity. The sliding contact of these oils makes them the best choice for worm gear applications. Compounded oils are also called cylinder oils because these lubricants were formulated initially for steam cylinder applications.
6. Food Grade Oils
Food grade oils are designed to be used in the machinery of food processing units. It contains a blend of mineral and synthetic base stocks to provide superior protection at various operating temperatures. The additives contribute to outstanding water resistance, tackiness, and enhanced mechanical stability.
Where To Buy Gear Oils And Lubricants?
Gear oils are complex, and there are various types based on specific industries and usage. For choosing the best oil, one should have a basic understanding of lubricants. If you work with industrial machines and look for the right lubricant you need to contact VCS sales and distribution, a supplier of high-quality oils and transmission fluids for over 10 years in Canada.Contact us for a free estimate.