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10
Routine Maintenance
Prior to any maintenance it is necessary to have the following data.
The date that the lubricator was last maintained.
The final depth of the reservoir piston when the lubricator was last maintained.
The plunger heights when the lubricator was last maintained.
Any works that were carried out when the lubricator was last maintained that could change the
grease output.
Any work that was identified but not carried out on the previous visit.
10.1
Measuring the Reservoir
10.1.1
This measurement is the only true guide
which indicates how much grease the
lubricator has used since it was last
visited. It is necessary to have the
previous recordings of the last inspection
since it will enable you to make
judgements and carry out corrective
action if needed without any guesswork.
10.1.2
Using a ruler, insert it into the centre
hole in the front cover of the reservoir
(see side image), making sure that the
side of the ruler is touching against the
side of the hole and the ruler is at the same angle that the reservoir is at.
10.1.3
When the ruler stops at the rear most face of the piston, check exactly the measurement
(in millimetres) against the face of the rear cover at the centre hole.
10.1.4
Record this measurement and compare it to the data that you have brought to site.
Important Note: Do not overfill the reservoir
Flat Back Plate (older reservoirs)
Top Hat Back Plate (newer reservoirs)
Full
80mm
Full
80mm
Empty
225mm
Empty
280mm
10.1.5
By subtracting the final measurement recorded from the last time the lubricator was
maintained from the measurement you have recorded this time will give you the amount
of grease used in millimetres.
10.1.6
The type of lubricator, its installation and rail traffic will determine the volume of grease
used since the lubricator was last maintained. For 1mm of piston displacement equates to
0.12kg of grease associated to Whitmore Europe’s reservoir (Part No. LCS102-01).
10.1.7
However do not make any alterations at this stage, as other reasons for incorrect grease
outputs may be the cause.
10.2
Checking for Leaks
10.2.1
The lubricator should be checked for leaks. In case there are leaks, it will be necessary to
take the leak into consideration in regards to the grease output that you have noted.