Paper machine gearbox and bearing oil monitoring
We monitor moisture and oil ageing in dryer cylinder bearings, gearboxes and press hydraulics. You see the warning signs before the line stops.
- 1Vibration · Bearing housing
- 2Temperature · Bearing housing
- 3Oil sensor · Oil return line
Monitored equipment
Paper machine main drive gearbox, dryer cylinder bearing lubrication circuit, press hydraulics, vacuum pump, refiner, centrifugal pump.
| Topic | In this industry |
|---|---|
| Main oil risk | Fibre, chemicals, moisture |
| Monitoring goal | Keeping the line running |
| Benefit | Lower risk of unplanned line stops. |
The right product and monitoring level are defined at the quote stage.
What we measure
In the oil, viscosity, water and moisture, oil ageing, particle contamination (ISO 4406 code) and the wear-metal trend are measured. On the machine, vibration level and temperature are monitored. When a reading moves away from the machine's normal range, the screen changes from green to amber or red. Warning signs and what they mean
What we do not measure: metal identification (which metal a particle is), acid and base number (TAN/TBN) and vibration spectrum analysis (FFT). These tests need a laboratory and a specialist. DataMonitor does not replace them. It works alongside them. The system watches for warning signs and gives early warning. It does not diagnose faults.
Paper & pulp FAQ
How is dryer cylinder bearing oil monitored?
An oil sensor on the return line of the bearing lubrication circuit measures viscosity, dielectric, water and temperature continuously. In these hot circuits, oil ageing shows up in the viscosity and dielectric trend. A sensor on the bearing housing also tracks vibration level and temperature. Reading oil and vibration together gives a clearer view of bearing condition.
How can I tell if water has got into the oil on a paper machine?
Oil only turns cloudy at roughly 0.1% or more suspended water (NASA RCM Guide). By the time you see it, it may be too late. The sensor measures water as ppm and water activity. It raises an alarm when the level starts to rise. In press hydraulics and vacuum pumps, rising water can shorten bearing and pump life, so an early warning matters.
When does paper machine gearbox oil need changing?
It depends on the gearbox manufacturer's recommendation and the measured condition of the oil. In a main drive gearbox, fibre, chemical vapour and moisture can contaminate the oil. The viscosity, water, particle and ageing trends show when a change is due. Changing by test results rather than the calendar reduces both unnecessary and late changes (US USBR FIST 2-4).
A quote for your machine
The machine, the oil in use and the problem are discussed by phone. The right product and monitoring level are defined. The price is sent as a written quote.
- Product recommendation for your machine
- Written quote
- Installation and alarm set-up included