Lathe open gearing lubrication

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Lathe open gearing lubrication

This topic has 5 replies, 4 voices, and was last updated 9 October 2009 at 18:45 by Bob T.

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27 August 2009 at 11:56 #43127
Barry Q
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@barryq
Hi all.

I have almost finished re-building a Boxford lathe. According to their handbook oils suitable for bearing surfaces is listed along with greases for the head stock tapered bearings. Question is (as I’m new to this game) what type of lubrication do people use on open gear trains on lathes such as a Boxford or Myford etc. >>

Last time I used a lathe (over 45 years ago) we were only told how to operate and turn things – maintenance of the lathes where left to the plant team so can’t even rely on my memory! My immediate thought would be use a thick oil sparingly such as an EP80 or similar that would not get thrown around – or even a light grease.>>

I’m open to suggestions from all those helpful MEs out there with far more knowledge than me – I’ve only just put my foot on the bottom of a very steep learning curve!>>

Also thanks to all those responsible for a very enjoyable day at the Bristol SMEE exhibition at Thornbury last weekend. You did yourselves proud.>>

Regards

Barry Q.>>
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27 August 2009 at 11:56 #11598
Barry Q
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@barryq
27 August 2009 at 19:54 #43139
dcosta
Participant
@dcosta
Hi Barry,

The best grease I found to the gear train is BP Energrease LCX 222.

Beyond lubrication qualities it has a great adherence to the gears and

keeps there for longer than any other grease I’ve used.

I’ve been using it for two and a half years either in my Emco Compact 8

lathe gear train and in the gear train of my Optimum BF20 Vario milling

machine.

And also use it in all other parts where grease is apropriate.

You can find information about it in the following URL:

http://www.bp.com/liveassets/bp_internet/…/BP_Terrac_leaflet.pdf

Best regards

Dias Costa

Edited By Dias Costa on 27/08/2009 19:59:41
30 August 2009 at 10:35 #43201
Barry Q
Participant
@barryq
Thanks for that reply Dias. The grease sounds better than normal automobile wheel bearing type grease. Now I’ll have to go and look for some. Sorry about the slow reply – not in touch with my computer for a day.

best wishes

Barry Q.
30 August 2009 at 11:22 #43202
MichaelR
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@michaelr
Rocol Make a good open gear lubricant seeHere
9 October 2009 at 18:45 #44062
Bob T
Participant
@bobt
Hi Barry,

I have to admit using motor cycle chain spray grease. It works for me very well indeed. The spray penetrates the various bushes etc very well. Once the grease has stopped fizzing (a few seconds) it proves to be very sticky and does not fly off the gears even at serious speed. It also has a major affect on the gear noise, reducing it to a low level. I have even been known to use it on the lead screw as well.

Regards Bob
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