Internal bearings play a key role in your decanter centrifuge. Without proper care, these bearings can wear down over time, leading to expensive repairs or even complete equipment failure.
Staying on top of routine maintenance—especially regularly greasing your bearings using the right technique—can go a long way in protecting your investment and extending the life of your centrifuge.
In the above video, we explain the importance of internal bearing maintenance and walk you through the step-by-step process required to grease internal bearings on a decanter centrifuge.
The internal bearings of a decanter centrifuge separate the bowl and scroll. Proper maintenance of these bearings helps avoid issues such as excessive friction or heat buildup, which could cause severe damage to the centrifuge. Greasing the internal bearings is relatively simple but requires careful attention to detail.
Check out our Comprehensive Guide to Decanter Centrifuge Operation and become a maintenance expert.Properly greasing the internal bearings of your decanter centrifuge is straightforward, but it requires attention to detail and adherence to safety protocols. Below, we outline the steps involved and what to watch for during the process.
As with all maintenance tasks, the first step is to follow plant safety regulations to protect the safety of the maintenance technician, other employees and the decanter centrifuge. This includes adhering to proper tag-out and lockout procedures to prevent accidental equipment startup.
Located inside the headwalls at both ends of the centrifuge, the journal bearings support the internal bearings during operation. You will need access to these areas to perform the greasing.
Have questions? Our service and support team is here to help!Before greasing the bearings, locate and remove the purge plug opposite the grease fitting. Removing this plug is essential to prevent excessive pressure buildup within the bearing cavity. Should pressure accumulate, it can blow out seals, leading to lubricant loss and potential damage to the internal components of your centrifuge.
Once the purge plug is removed you can begin greasing the internal bearings by hand. Continue greasing until you see clean grease emerging from the purge hole. It is normal for a substantial amount of grease to be used—depending on the size of the machine, it may take an entire tube or more. Don’t be surprised if you go through a significant amount of grease during this process.
The expelled grease can provide information about the current status of the internal bearings and if additional inspection or maintenance services are required. If you notice dirty to clean grease, keep greasing until the grease from the plug hole is clean. If you notice the grease is still dirty, continue greasing. If you see water, grit, or other contaminants in the grease, this could indicate that the internal bearings are compromised and need further inspection.
Learn more about how you can diagnose bearing damage on your decanter centrifuge.
If no grease emerges from the purge plug, your decanter centrifuge may have underlying issues, including:
If you experience any of these issues, inspect the decanter centrifuge immediately or contact our service and support team. Immediate attention is important to avoid further damage.
Lubricating your internal bearings should be part of your regular maintenance plan. Routine greasing helps reduce friction, prevent overheating, and extend the centrifuge's lifespan.
Remember to monitor the equipment for any signs of excessive vibration, which could indicate a potential issue with the bearings or other components. These tasks can be added to your maintenance log.
Why is my decanter centrifuge vibrating? Get your answer here.
Only use approved greases to avoid damaging your centrifuge. Mixing different types of grease can lead to bearing failure. Additionally, using non-approved lubricants may void your warranty. If you are unsure which grease to use, refer to the manufacturer's guidelines or contact Centrisys/CNP for guidance.
Centrisys/CNP offers all brands comprehensive decanter centrifuge maintenance, service, and repairs. Our team can answer any questions about the proper approach to greasing internal bearings and what may indicate the need for a maintenance call or repair services. Learn more.
Q: How often should I grease the internal bearings of my decanter centrifuge?
A: Greasing frequency depends on the specific model and operational conditions. Generally, regular inspections and greasing should be done every 500 to 1,000 hours of operation. Your specific manufacturer’s guidelines will include the precise intervals suggested for your specific decanter centrifuge.
Q: What kind of grease should I use for my decanter centrifuge?
A: It is important to always use the grease specified by your centrifuge's manufacturer. Using approved grease ensures the longevity of your bearings and prevents warranty issues. You should also avoid mixing and using different types of grease for this application.
Q: What should I do if the grease is contaminated with water or grit?
A: Contaminated grease indicates a potential issue with the internal bearings. Inspect the bearings immediately for damage and check for seal failures or blockages in the return line. If not addressed promptly, contaminated grease could lead to further damage.
Q: How do I know if my internal bearings need greasing?
A: Increased vibration or unusual noise during operation are one of the first signs that the internal bearings need greasing. Regular monitoring and lubrication will help prevent such issues and extend the bearings' life.
Q: What happens if I don’t grease the internal bearings regularly?
A: Neglecting regular lubrication can lead to excessive friction, overheating, and potential failure of the internal bearings. This can result in costly repairs and downtime. Regular greasing ensures that your centrifuge runs efficiently and remains in service for a long time.
For more information on how to keep your decanter centrifuge in top condition through regular internal bearing greasing and maintenance, visit Centrisys/CNP, contact the experts at Centrisys/CNP online or call 262-425-9704.