Rotary machine equipment can be found in nearly every industrial setting and plant, properly and efficiently driving the components that keep machinery running. This equipment is, in many ways, the backbone of an industrial facility, making proper maintenance a critical need — even more so because rotary equipment is often subject to some of the most intensive wear and tear of any machinery in a facility.
This is because rotary equipment operates at high speeds for extended periods — sometimes, nearly around the clock. All the while, this equipment — electric motors, gearboxes, pumps, steam turbines and more — must also maintain a high degree of precision and cleanliness in order to operate efficiently. Throughout the rest of the article, we will explore some of the main challenges and issues that operators face in maintaining rotary equipment.
Problem: Rotary equipment is highly susceptible — and sensitive — to contamination by outside particles. Even a single particle of dirt or dust can exponentially increase the stress on bearings and other equipment, leading to premature failure and maintenance.
Solution: Properly sealed bearings are one of the most effective ways to keep contaminants out of rotary equipment. With an air-tight, liquid-tight seal, the best bearing seals can ensure that no outside material makes its way into equipment. In addition to proper sealing, it is also important to keep the area around the equipment clean, wiping it down before and after each shift or cycle and conducting additional regular, more intensive cleaning.
Problem: It can be difficult to maintain proper lubrication in bearings, especially given the near-constant state of motion of rotary equipment.
Solution: Just as proper sealing can keep contaminants out, it can also help keep lubricating media in, ensuring that bearings are able to continue operating unabated and at high efficiency. Bearing isolator products help maintain the air-tight, liquid-tight seal while capturing and recirculating any lubricant leakage, whether grease, oil mist or liquid lube.
Problem: It can be difficult to tighten seals and equipment to the proper setting.
Solution: Use a torque wrench and consult equipment documentation to ensure proper tightening to the maximum recommended level.
Problem: Technicians may not be aware of the correct technical specs for bearings and other equipment, may not be trained on a particular piece of equipment, and may not know where to find this information.
Solution: Support technicians with training programs. Additionally, invest in equipment and components that have comprehensive, readily available technical information so that technicians can properly install components and review best practices to maximize performance and efficiency.
At ISOMAG, we have designed and developed the original long-lasting, liquid-tight magnetic-face bearing seal. Our unique and innovative seal design minimizes wear and tear on the rotating equipment. This helps reduce the need for maintenance, repairs, oil changes and other time-consuming processes that require extensive downtime. Designed to keep contaminants out and keep lubricant in, magnetic-face seals from ISOMAG are the right choice for streamlining your maintenance processes, reducing costs, and improving overall efficiency, accuracy and quality in your operations.
To learn more, contact us today.