22 Lubrication
Page Description
Correct lubrication of moving components is essential to maintain reliable machine operation and prevent premature wear of mechanical parts.
The machine has been designed to minimise lubrication requirements. Many bearings used within the machine are sealed-for-life bearings and require no routine lubrication.
Only approved food-grade lubricants should be used to prevent contamination of food products.
Lubrication should be carried out by trained personnel as part of routine maintenance.
21.1 Approved Lubricants
Only food-safe lubricants suitable for food processing environments should be used on this machine.
The following lubricants are recommended.
ROCOL FOODLUBE Ultra
Guide rods, linear rails, sliding components
Food-grade bearing grease (site approved)
Rod-end bearings and roller bearings where specified
ℹ NOTE Only use food-grade lubricants approved for food processing environments.
21.2 Linear Rails and Guide Rods
Linear rails and guide rods support moving mechanical assemblies and must operate smoothly to ensure accurate machine motion.
Apply a light film of ROCOL FOODLUBE Ultra to:
Linear guide rails
Guide rods
Sliding mechanical assemblies
After applying lubricant:
Move the mechanism through its full travel to distribute the lubricant.
Remove any excess lubricant with a clean cloth.
ℹ NOTE Excess lubricant may attract dust or contaminate product areas.
Diagram Placeholder
(Insert diagram showing guide rods and linear rail lubrication points)
21.3 Rod-End Bearings
Rod-end bearings used in linkages may require occasional lubrication.
These components may be found on:
Transfer arm mechanisms
Mechanical linkages
Adjustable mechanical joints
Apply a small amount of approved food-grade bearing grease where lubrication is required.
Remove any excess grease after application.
Diagram Placeholder
(Insert diagram showing rod-end bearing lubrication points)
21.4 Sealed Bearings
Many bearings used within the machine are sealed-for-life bearings.
These bearings:
Require no routine lubrication
Should not be opened or greased
Examples include:
Conveyor roller bearings
Motor bearings
Sealed mechanical bearings
If a sealed bearing becomes noisy, worn, or damaged, it should be replaced rather than lubricated.
21.5 Lubrication Frequency
Lubrication intervals depend on machine usage and operating conditions.
Typical guidance:
Linear rails / guide rods
Inspect weekly, lubricate if required
Rod-end bearings
Inspect monthly
Sealed bearings
No lubrication required
Inspect components for:
Dry movement
Increased friction
Unusual noise
Visible wear
21.6 Lubrication Matrix
The following lubrication matrix provides a quick reference for lubrication requirements across the machine.
Linear guide rails
ROCOL FOODLUBE Ultra
Light film applied to rail
Weekly inspection
Guide rods
ROCOL FOODLUBE Ultra
Wipe-on lubrication
Weekly inspection
Sliding mechanical assemblies
ROCOL FOODLUBE Ultra
Light coating
Weekly inspection
Rod-end bearings
Food-grade bearing grease
Apply small amount to joint
Monthly inspection
Sealed bearings
None required
Replace if worn
As required
ℹ NOTE Apply lubricants sparingly to prevent contamination of food contact areas.
21.7 Cleaning Before Lubrication
Before applying lubricant:
Ensure the machine is isolated and safe to work on.
Remove any product residue or debris.
Clean the lubrication point using a clean cloth.
Apply lubricant sparingly.
Wipe away excess lubricant.
21.8 Areas That Must Not Be Lubricated
The following components must not be lubricated.
Sealing tooling
Film contact surfaces
Tray contact surfaces
Conveyor belts
Electrical components
Sensors or encoders
Lubricants in these areas may result in product contamination or machine malfunction.
21.9 Lubrication Checklist
The following checklist may be used during routine maintenance.
Machine isolated and LOTO applied
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Linear rails inspected
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Guide rods cleaned and lubricated if required
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Sliding assemblies lubricated
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Rod-end bearings inspected
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Rod-end bearings greased where required
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Excess lubricant removed
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No lubricant present on product contact areas
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Machine returned to safe operating condition
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Technician Name: ______________________
Date: ___________________________________
Signature: ______________________________
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