Circulating lubrication (oil circuit): When does it make sense
With high thermal loads or large bearing points, the Circulating lubrication Advantages: continuous oil supply, defined quantities and Cooling effect through heat transport.
Working principle
Oil is pumped out of the tank, passed through bearings/lubricating points and, after flow, returned to the tank, often with a filter, cooler and monitoring.
Typical applications
- Rolling mills, large gearboxes, high speed bearings
- Machines with high ambient temperature/load
- If cooling/rinsing of the lubrication area is required
Components
- Pump/unit, tank, filter, cooler if necessary
- Flow meter, pressure monitoring, temperature sensor
- Return lines with level/leakage control
Design & monitoring
- Define viscosity/temperature window and desired flow rate
- Limit values for pressure/temperature/flow → message/alarm to HMI/PLC
- Check the cleanliness of the oil (filtration) and aging regularly
Matching components: Lubricants, Control & monitoring Advice: Contact
FAQ
When does circulation lubrication pay off
With high downtime costs and thermal stress, often quickly; Additional cooling saves component wear.
Which sensors are useful
pressure, temperature, flow; optional particle monitoring for critical systems.