When an automatic lubrication system fails, a customer’s common complaint is that the pump is to blame. However, we often find other concerning issues during an LH Travis inspection. It might be metering devices, fittings, voltage issues, or tiny blockages that led to poor lubricant distribution, which caused the failures. Here is what you may not know about these vital areas.
Clogged Metering Devices
Metering devices control how much lubricant reaches each point. When they clog, due to contaminants, degraded grease, or heat-thickened oils, you get either too much or too little lubricant. That imbalance stresses bearings and gears, causing uneven wear and system failures. Preventive maintenance checks eliminate the need to assume it was the pump.
Damaged Fittings and Lines
It does not take much vibration, thermal expansion, or accidental bangs to crack a fitting or pinch a line. Pressure drops or leaks may be subtle, but they starve your system of lubricant. Often, a pump runs perfectly while the delivery network fails. Regular inspections of hoses, fittings, and seals are essential to catch damage early.
Electrical and Voltage Problems
Low voltage or loose wiring will underpower your pump, leading to weak flow. Many automatic lubrication systems use electric pumps and controllers, so electrical health matters. During inspections, use a multimeter and thermal camera checks to ensure stable current and to prevent an erratic operation.
Unseen or Undetected Blockages
Debris, oxidation, and air bubbles will block flow in hidden spots like inside manifolds, through check valves, or at restricted points. The pump might build pressure, but lubricant will not reach the right places if a blockage is downstream. Professionals use flow indicators, pressure monitoring, or periodic flushes to keep lines clear.
Something You Must Always Consider
Never assume the pump is at fault or the root cause. Instead, diligently checking metering devices, lines, fittings, electrical health, and blockages will dramatically extend your automatic lubrication system’s effectiveness. Remember, these are not optional checks; they are standard operating procedures every company must follow to ensure optimal performance and reliability.
At LH Travis, we help companies across the Southeast, Central Florida, and Winter Haven find more effective ways to lubricate their equipment and improve reliability. Whether you are ready to upgrade your system or have questions, we would love to talk. Please stop by our location or call us today; we are here to help.