When to lubricate:
Plain bearings are characterized as maintenance-free. The bearing provides its own lubrication throughout the system’s lifetime without any need for
maintenance. Self-lubrication happens during the ongoing process in which the bearing liner transfers to the shaft, during which a thin film is deposited on the
shaft surface that fills in any valleys in the surface finish.
Lubrication is optional with plain bearings. If desired, apply one of the recommended lubricants (listed below) directly on the shaft using a clean cloth. Cover
all the visible shaft surface with a thin layer of lubricant, then cycle the bearing along the shaft several times to ensure proper application and distribution.
Lubricating plain bearings enhance performances by:
Reducing friction.
Minimizing wear.
Allowing for greater speed.
Recommended lubricants:
Waylube oil.
Petroleum-based grease.
3-in-1 oils.
Not recommended (avoid):
WD-40.
PTFE sprays.
Fluorocarbons.
Silicone-based lubricants.
Break-in period:
To create the initial self-lubrication conditions, plain bearings require a break-in period of around 50 to 100 full strokes of continuous operation. To maximize
the operating life cycle on plain bearings, clean the shaft with 3-in-1 oil before installing the plain bearing. This ensures the shaft surface will receive a full
transfer of bearing material.
After the break-in period, shaft cleaning increases the wear of the bearing. This is due to the transfer process being performed over and over again. If the shaft
needs to be cleaned, do not use alcohol or alcohol-based cleaners, which will remove all the previously transferred material.
Ball Screw Assembly (MO-LM-003-XXXX)
Figure 4: MO-LM-003-XXXX, Ball Screw Actuator.
When to lubricate:
Prior to the initial installation.
The screw shaft and ball nut are coated with rust preventive oil for shipping and storage and must be properly lubricated upon assembly.
Once every 6 months, or after every 500,000 revolutions —whichever comes first.
The lubrication interval is application-dependent. You may need to lubricate more frequently depending on the duty cycle, usage, and environment. If the
lubricant appears to be dispersed before this point or has become dry or crusted, the maintenance interval should be reduced.
