Lubrication systems play a critical role in the performance and longevity of machinery. They ensure the moving parts are well lubricated to reduce friction and wear and help dissipate heat generated during operation.
But, low system pressure can cause severe problems and impact the efficiency of a machine. This article will explore the causes, effects, and solutions for low system pressure.
Low system pressure occurs when the pressure in a lubrication system drops below the minimum required level for proper operation. The minimum pressure level depends on the specific system and its components but generally ranges from 30 to 70 psi. When pressure drops below this range, it can cause several issues that affect the performance and longevity of machinery.
If you are a machinery owner or operator, it is crucial to understand the importance of maintaining optimal lubrication system pressure. Low system pressure can affect your machinery's performance, safety, and sustainability, leading to increased maintenance costs, decreased efficiency and productivity, and safety and environmental concerns. Addressing low system pressure can prevent these adverse effects and ensure your machinery operates at peak performance.
By reading this blog article, you will better understand the critical role lubrication system pressure plays in ensuring your machinery's optimal performance and safety. You will learn how to identify the causes and effects of low system pressure and how to implement practical solutions to prevent it.
Causes
Several factors can cause low system pressure in a lubrication system. Some of the most common causes include:
Worn or damaged pumps
The pump generates the necessary pressure to distribute oil throughout the system. Over time, the pump's internal components can become worn or damaged, resulting in reduced pump efficiency and a pressure drop. A worn or damaged pump may not maintain the required pressure to distribute oil effectively, resulting in low system pressure.
Clogged filters
Filters are essential to lubrication systems, as they remove impurities and contaminants from the oil before it enters the system. But, over time, filters can become clogged with debris, reducing the flow of oil and causing pressure to drop. If filters are not cleaned or replaced regularly, they can cause low system pressure.
Contaminated oil can cause blockages in the lubrication system, which can reduce oil flow and pressure. If the oil is not filtered or changed regularly, it can become contaminated with debris, dirt, or other impurities, which can cause low system pressure.
Leaks
Sometimes, the lubrication system may be improperly designed or installed, resulting in low system pressure. For example, if the pipes and fittings are incorrectly sized, this can result in insufficient oil flow and pressure. If the lubrication system is not installed correctly, this can lead to leaks or other issues that can cause low system pressure.
Leaks in the system can cause oil to escape, reducing the volume and pressure in the system. Leaks can occur at various points in the system, such as at the seals, fittings, or valves. Over time, leaks can worsen and cause a significant pressure drop, leading to the failure of the lubrication system.
The pump requires a certain oil level to maintain pressure and distribute oil effectively. If the oil level in the system is low, the pump may not be able to generate enough pressure to distribute oil effectively, leading to low system pressure.
Effects
Low system pressure can have several adverse effects on machinery. Some of the most common effects include the following:
Increased wear and tear, downtime, and maintenance costs
Low system pressure can result in inadequate lubrication, causing increased friction and wear on the machinery components. This increased wear can lead to premature failure of bearings, gears, and other critical components.
If low system pressure is not addressed, it can increase downtime and lost productivity. This is because machinery may need to be shut down to prevent further damage or repair the lubrication system.
Low system pressure can result in increased maintenance costs due to increased wear and tear, increased downtime, and the need for more frequent repairs and replacements of machinery components.
Reduced efficiency
Low system pressure can cause reduced efficiency and output of machinery. This is because the machinery components are not receiving the necessary amount of lubrication, which can lead to increased energy consumption and reduced productivity.
Safety and Environmental concerns
Low system pressure can lead to safety concerns as the machinery components may not operate as they should. In extreme cases, this can lead to accidents, injuries, and even fatalities.
Low system pressure can also result in environmental concerns as it can lead to increased emissions and pollution due to increased energy consumption and reduced efficiency of machinery.
Solutions
Several solutions for low system pressure depend on the root cause. Some of the most common solutions include:
Regular maintenance
Regular maintenance of the lubrication system is essential to prevent low system pressure. This includes changing the oil, cleaning or replacing filters, and inspecting the system for leaks, wear, and damage. Addressing issues early can prevent low system pressure and avoid costly repairs or replacements.
Check the pump and filters
The pump is a critical component of the lubrication system that generates the necessary pressure to distribute oil. If the pump is worn or damaged, it can result in low system pressure. Regularly checking the pump for wear and damage can help identify issues before they cause low system pressure.
Filters are responsible for removing impurities and contaminants from the oil before it enters the system. If the filters are clogged, it can result in low system pressure. Regularly checking and cleaning or replacing filters can help prevent low system pressure.
A schematic with a flow meter installed in the relief valve tank line. (Source: Noria)
Check for leaks
Leaks in the system can cause oil to escape, reducing the volume and pressure. Regularly checking the system for leaks and addressing them can help prevent low system pressure.
The pump requires a certain oil level to maintain pressure and distribute oil effectively. If the oil level in the system is low, it can result in low system pressure. Regularly checking the oil level and adding oil as necessary can help prevent low system pressure.
Use high-quality oil
High-quality oil designed for your machinery and lubrication system can help prevent low system pressure. High-quality oil can also help reduce wear and tear on machinery components, increasing efficiency and productivity.
Conclusion
This blog article discussed the causes, effects, and solutions for low pressure in lubrication systems. We have highlighted the importance of addressing low system pressure and shared practical solutions to help you maintain optimal lubrication system pressure.
By learning about the importance of lubrication system pressure and how to maintain it, you can enhance your machinery's efficiency, productivity, and sustainability, leading to increased profitability and reduced environmental impact.
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Due to manufacturing tolerances, the external dimension is average. Its vacuum resistance is up to -0.9 bar; it's recommended for use with mineral oil & water-based hydraulic fluids, suction & low-pressure return lines. It uses a nitrile-based internal tube and outer cover; its reinforcement is a textile braid, zinc-plated double steel wire helix; its temperature ranges from -40°C to +100°C. Contact our reliability engineers to learn more.
Source:
Weeks, J. (n.d.). 4 Steps to Diagnose Low System Pressure. MachineryLubrication. Retrieved from https://www.machinerylubrication.com/Read/31837/low-system-pressure
