Introduction
Proper use, installation, and maintenance of cam followers are crucial for ensuring optimal performance and extending the lifespan of your equipment. In this guide, we outline best practices for handling cam followers to help you avoid common issues and maximize their operational efficiency.
1. Prior to Installation: Safety First
Before installing or servicing any cam follower, carefully read and understand all provided instructions, warnings, and safety notices. Always use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and follow standard lockout-tagout procedures to ensure the safety of the operator and equipment.
2. Consider Re-lubrication Needs
When planning the installation of your cam follower bearings, consider whether and how re-lubrication will be required for the application. Depending on the size, some stud-type cam followers feature axial holes at both ends of the stud, as well as a radial hole in the non-threaded portion of the stud.
- Axial Lubrication Holes: For smaller cam followers, these axial holes accept drive-type grease fittings, while larger sizes may feature threaded holes.
- Metal Plugs: Each stud-type cam follower typically includes metal plugs. These should not be discarded, as they are essential to the lubrication process. For instance, if you install a grease fitting at one end of the cam follower, a plug can be used at the opposite end to direct grease into the bearing.
If re-lubrication is not required, installing plugs at both ends of the cam follower helps protect it from contamination. This safeguards the bearing from external contaminants, thus extending its service life and reducing downtime.
3. Installing Fittings and Plugs
Proper installation of grease fittings and plugs is essential to maintaining the cam follower’s integrity.
- Drive-Type Grease Fittings: Use appropriate tools, such as an arbor press or hammer, to install the grease fitting without damaging it.
- Metal Plug Installation: Install metal plugs using a small drive pin and an arbor press or hammer. Ensure the plug is flush with the bottom of the slot, allowing easy removal with a screwdriver when needed. Proper installation of the plug helps ensure optimal cam follower performance and simplifies future servicing.
4. The Importance of Maintenance
Regular inspection and maintenance are critical for ensuring long-term performance of cam followers. After installation, neglecting bearing maintenance can result in permanent damage and reduced lifespan.
- Minimal Maintenance Scenarios: Applications involving slower speeds, cleaner environments, and moderate temperatures may require minimal maintenance.
- High-Demand Applications: For applications with higher speeds, elevated temperatures, or significant contamination, more frequent re-lubrication and inspection are necessary. Failure to maintain bearings in such conditions can lead to accelerated wear and reduced operational life.
5. Maximize Performance Through Regular Maintenance
To achieve the best performance from your cam followers, establish a regular maintenance routine that includes inspection and lubrication as required. Neglecting this can result in permanent damage, which could necessitate costly replacements or lead to unscheduled downtime. Proper maintenance ensures maximum operational efficiency and extends the service life of the cam followers.
Conclusion
By following these best practices for the use, installation, and maintenance of cam followers, you can significantly improve their performance and longevity. Whether your application requires minimal maintenance or frequent attention, taking the time to properly care for your cam followers will prevent unnecessary damage and downtime.
For more information on our range of cam followers, feel free to contact us YLH Bearing experts or explore our product offerings.
