MODEC
Wire Rope Lubricating System
The Importance Of Lubrication In Wire Ropes
All wire ropes require consistent maintenance and proper care in order to remain in good condition and functionally efficient.
- During operation the strands that make up a wire rope are under constant stress and strain
- The strands constantly rub against each other causing friction
- The friction cause the strands to wear
- The friction heat causes oxidation resulting in high internal core temperatures which in turn accelerates rusting and causes premature rope failure
Proper lubrication reduces the friction, thus resulting in the full and functional lifespan of the
rope.
Besides, the lubricant also provides total protection against corrosion.
Problem With Manual Lubrication
Insufficient penetration to prevent friction
With the manual lubrication method, the lubricant cannot penetrate through a compact wire rope and will allow friction to take place upon the use of the wire ropes. The abrasion will destroy the wire rope from the inside and will cause the rope to be potentially dangerous.
Operationally Inefficient
The wire rope lubricating operations heavily rely on manual work which uses rags, brushes and gloves to spread the lubricant onto the wire rope.
This method is time consuming, costly and inefficient.
Ineffective to prevent rust
With the manual lubrication method, the lubricant forms a film on the surface whereby water vapour can penetrate, thus becoming trapped.
Any temperature changes will cause condensation and rust begins to form. This will shorten the life span of the wire rope.