MEMOLUB^® HPS

Automating air blower turbine bearing lubrication in glass production.

CONTEXT

This case study examines the lubrication process for turbine bearings in air blowers located above conveyor arches at a prominent glass manufacturing facility. These air blowers are crucial for maintaining the temperature and airflow necessary for glass production. Efficient lubrication of the turbine bearings is vital to ensure smooth operation and longevity, especially given the challenging environmental conditions they operate in.

PROBLEM

The air blowers are positioned above the arches, making access difficult for regular maintenance. This led to inconsistent lubrication schedules and an overall inadequate maintenance routine. The large number of lubrication points further exacerbated the issue, making manual lubrication time-consuming and inefficient. Consequently, the bearings experienced increased wear and a higher risk of failure, which could disrupt the production process and increase maintenance costs.

SOLUTION

To address these challenges, a Memolub HPS system was installed for each turbine, equipped with a distributor and filled with COGELSA Ultragrease ALFA 2 grease cartridges. This automated lubrication system was designed to ensure that each lubrication point received regular and adequate grease, maintaining consistent lubrication intervals. The Memolub HPS system’s automation eliminated the need for frequent manual interventions, thus improving the reliability of the lubrication process.

RESULTS

The implementation of the Memolub HPS system resulted in several significant improvements. The turbine bearings received effective and regular lubrication, maintaining optimal operational conditions. The automated system adhered to the required lubrication schedules, ensuring that the bearings were consistently maintained. This not only enhanced the performance and longevity of the bearings but also resulted in substantial labor savings. The reduced need for manual lubrication interventions allowed maintenance personnel to focus on other critical tasks, thereby improving overall operational efficiency at the glass manufacturing facility. The consistent lubrication also minimized the risk of unexpected breakdowns, contributing to a more stable and efficient production process.