SKF's automatic lubrication system helps maintain farm machinery
A new automatic lubrication system from SKF Lincoln helps maintain the performance of farm equipment by increasing chain reliability and reducing chain wear.
The OCL-M system, which was developed specifically for equipment such as balers and combines, dispenses precise amounts of lubricant to the moving chain. This reduces wear on the chain – giving it a service life up to five times longer than one that is manually lubricated, says the company.
“By reducing chain wear, the OCL-M automatic lubrication system lessens the chance of downtime,” said SKF global lubrication offer manager agriculture Daniel Gonzales.
The system includes brushes that clean the chain during operation, which helps improve equipment reliability by minimising the effects of dust and hay. Automatic lubrication helps improve safety – because manual application is eliminated, and reduces costs as a result of accurate dispensing of lubricant.
OCL-M is available as pre-configured kits, which vary in size depending on the number and type of chains that require lubrication. It is mechanically driven, requiring no hydraulic or electrical fittings, making it easy to install.
The system is mounted directly onto a machine’s shaft. A variety of pump elements and outlets allows for a wide range of lubricant dosages, depending on the demand. Dosage is adjusted by moving an adjustment disk.
The system can also be installed earlier in the process by the original-equipment manufacturer, giving dealers the added advantage of offering customers an easy-to-use product that requires minimal maintenance.