In order for a conveyor chain to perform well, the bearing surface must be lubricated.
All FB conveyor chains are lubricated before they leave the factory, however re-lubrication should be carried out after installation, and at regular intervals, as a preventative measure.
Correct lubrication will minimise power absorption, wear rate, corrosion and noise.
In normal conditions and operating temperatures, a quality mineral oil with medium viscosity e.g. SAE 20W50 will suffice. But for specific application environments, specialist lubricants will be required.
Industry
Conveyor chains operating in certain industries will require specialist lubricants to avoid contamination or spoiling of the product being conveyed.
Those working in the food, tobacco, water, textiles, hospital and nuclear industries should contact a lubricant specialist for advice.
Temperature
Conveyor chains operating in low temperatures (between -60° and 0°C) will require specialist low-temperature water-repellent grease to prevent condensation from freezing on the chain and halting articulation.
Up to 160°C, a wet film lubricant should be used. These types of lubricants are usually solid greases which are dispersed in a chlorinated hydrocarbon solvent and which allow the lubricant to penetrate into the joints of the chain
For temperatures over 160°C, a dry-film non-carbonising lubricant should be used.
Dusty Environments
Conveyor chains operating in dusty environments should be lubricated with a dry-film lubricant to prevent dust adherence. The chain must be periodically cleaned and re-lubricated to remove any build up.
Water
Conveyor chains in water plants typically operate above the water level and so require a lubricant that is adhesive enough not to drip into (and potentially contaminate) drinking water. Heavy greases are usually the most effective.
Conveyor chains operating in sewage treatment works are often submerged in the water which makes it impossible to lubricate them regularly.
Those responsible for ordering chains should ask for materials and manufacturing processes which are specifically suited to continuously wet environments.
Where chains are accessible for lubrication, water-repellent grease should be used.
Solvents
Re-lubrication of conveyor chains exposed to solvents is not usually possible as it can contaminate the product. Lubrication suppliers should be contacted for specialist advice.