Falk gearboxes are amazing machines, capable of operating under intense pressures and temperatures. However, they are still sensitive to the conditions they operate within. Some temperatures and pressures can damage your equipment. Today we will explore the factors can cause overheating and what you can do to prevent it.
Causes of Overheating
There are a number of causes that can be at the root of overheating. It is important to perform a thorough and proper inspection to determine why. Without addressing the exact source of the problem you run the risk of having repeat issues.
Collecting the following information is imperative to be able to diagnose issues:
- Operating temperatures
- Ambient temperatures
- OEM-specified lubricant requirements including viscosity grade
- Viscosity index of the lubricant used
- Load conditions on the gearbox and maximum/minimum speeds, etc.
- Particle counts or contamination levels
With this information you can begin to look for the root cause, which could be a combination of factors.
The Importance of Proper Gearbox Lubrication
If your gearbox overheats, improper lubrication could be the issue.
- Was the type of lubricant used the appropriate type and viscosity? This is a common culprit. It is important to use the correct type of lubricant in order to prevent contact friction from overheating the Falk gearbox.
If this is a problem that happens frequently, consider switching to a synthetic lubricant , which are more resistant to heat and oxidation. They also have higher viscosity.
- Is the lubricant breaking down and oxidizing? The best way to tell if this is the case is if the lubricant has an unpleasant odor. An oil analysis should be performed to determine if the lubricant is oxidizing.
This is the optimal way to find out if your gearbox is contaminated, full of debris, or experiencing wear and tear. You should also check the gearbox OEM manual to be aware of the proper running conditions and the lubricant specifications.
Other factors to consider in order to determine the cause of overheating are:
- Using the wrong gearbox model
- Misaligned parts
- Issues with bearings
- Thermal runaway, and torsional and lateral vibration
Of the above factors, misaligned parts are a very common cause of gearbox failure. Signs to watch for include premature gear pitting and pitting in the bearings.
Preventing Overheating
One of the best ways to prevent overheating is to use a synthetic oil, which is better able to handle high temperatures and resist oxidation. Mineral-based lubricants can sometimes be the cause of overheating, as they are less resistant to heat and oxidize more quickly.
Improper lubrication and contamination account for at least a quarter of gearbox failures. Using the wrong type of lubricant can seriously damage or break your Falk gearbox. Even small leaks can lead to a deficit of oil and an overheated gearbox.
If you find your Falk gearbox overheats, contact the experts at Mar-Dustrial. We can inspect, repair, and maintain your equipment. Looking for new or rebuilt parts? Check out our inventory.
Posted under Falk Gearboxes on Thursday, June 13th, 2019