Which lubrication method is more suitable for high-speed operation of WP series worm gear reducer

For WP series worm gear reducers operating at high speeds, oil injection lubrication (also known as forced lubrication or cyclic lubrication) is a more suitable method.

The specific lubrication method selection is usually based on the sliding speed (Vs) of the worm gear as the core judgment criterion:

When the sliding speed Vs is greater than 10m/s, oil injection lubrication must be used. Continuously spraying lubricating oil into the meshing area through an oil pump can effectively remove a large amount of heat generated during high-speed operation and ensure sufficient lubrication.

When the sliding speed Vs is ≤ 10m/s, oil bath lubrication (immersion lubrication) is usually used. This method has a simple structure and relies on a worm or worm gear to bring lubricating oil from the oil pool into the meshing area.

In order to better perform lubrication maintenance under high-speed working conditions, the following are several key precautions:

1、 Selection of lubricating oil

High speed operation requires higher performance of lubricating oil.

Specialized oil: It is strongly recommended to use specialized worm gear oil (such as synthetic extreme pressure worm gear oil) instead of ordinary industrial gear oil. Special oil contains special anti-wear and friction reducing additives, and can effectively protect the copper alloy material commonly used in worm gears from corrosion.

Viscosity considerations: Lubricating oils with relatively low viscosity (such as ISO VG220 and other medium viscosity oils) are suitable for high-speed and light load conditions to reduce power loss and temperature rise caused by high-speed stirring.

2、 Installation and maintenance details

Breather: After adding lubricating oil and before starting to operate the equipment, be sure to tighten the top ventilator and remove the small cone plug on the ventilator. During high-speed operation, the temperature and pressure inside the box will increase, and if the ventilator is not opened, it can easily cause oil seal leakage.

Oil temperature monitoring: The reducer generates a large amount of heat during high-speed operation, and close attention should be paid to the oil temperature. Normally, the maximum allowable oil temperature is 95 ℃. As long as the oil temperature does not continue to rise within this limit, it can be used with confidence.

First oil change: After about 100 hours of initial use, it is recommended to perform the first oil change for the new gearbox to remove the small metal particles generated during the running in period.