Case Studies

Issue

A screw feeder (double-humped, with an intermediate bearing) that sends raw sugar in the sugar washing process at a sugar refinery. Up to now, grease-up had been performed manually but the lubrication was frequently forgotten, and the bearings had to be replaced every six months to 1 year at the most.

Root Cause

This process is directly related to problems that often occurred due to forgotten or insufficient lubrication because lubrication was carried out by manpower. Also, the quality of the grease used would not withstand the moist atmosphere.

Goal

Eliminate under-lubrication by automating lubrication with high performance grease to reduce the frequency of bearing replacement/maintenance.
Target: 1 year of no maintenance

The Chesterton Lubri-Cup EM and Chesterton 630 SXCF service pack were selected to provide reliable greasing with high performance and food grade specification. One Lubri -Cup was used for each of the bearings which included the center bearing which was fed through a tube (3 sets in total). The grease from the center bearing is removed in the subsequent cleaning processes, so it is not considered a problem. Lubrication timing is set at 12 months.

About the Chesterton Lubri-Cup EM Series:

• Excellent corrosion protection
• Best-in-class water and chemical washout resistance
• QBT Quiet Bearing Technology
• Automatic grease dispensing

More about the Chesterton 630 SXCF:

• NSF Registered H1
• Compatible with most popular greases
• Anti-oxidants prevent hardening or crystallization
• Dropping point 318° C (604° F)

The equipment is operating smoothly with no problems, and 1 year has passed. The service pack has been replaced and will continue to be used. The grease pack is well received because the remaining grease level can be seen from the outside and the display shows how many shots have been applied.

ROI

Conventional method
・ Unscheduled lubrication by manpower
・Outsourcing cost
(bearing replacement, shaft maintenance, etc.)
$3,000-/times

CH method
・Lubri-Cup EM + #630 Service Pack @260 x 3 sets = $780-
・Outsourcing cost
(bearing replacement, shaft maintenance, etc.)
$3,000-
Reduction in one year
$6,000 – \$3,780= REDUCE $2,220

Chesterton® is a world leader in helping process industry companies and manufacturers improve the reliability and efficiency of their rotating, stationary, and fluid power equipment platforms. We are known across a wide range of industries for our award-winning pump and valve sealing solutions, applications expertise, equipment maintenance and wear-prevention products, and knowledgeable hands-on local service. Chesterton product range includes mechanical seals, packing and gaskets, industrial lubricants and coatings.

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APAC0067.  Issued 05/2023.

Technical data reflects results of laboratory tests and is intended to indicate general characteristics only. A.W. Chesterton Company disclaims all warranties expressed or implied, including warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. Liability, if any, is limited to product replacement only. Any images contained herein are for general illustrative or aesthetic purposes only and are not intended to convey any instructional, safety, handling, or usage information or advice respecting any product or equipment. Please refer to relevant Safety Data Sheets, Product Data Sheets, and/or Product Labels for safe use, storage, handling, and disposal of products, or consult with your local Chesterton sales representative.