SKF's Lubrication System Has Its Own Power

SKF has introduced its latest Vogel centralised lubrication system, which has been developed to provide cost-effective and reliable lubrication in remote areas of factories, in inaccessible plant, mobile equipment or other applications where a local power supply is unavailable. Designated the KFAS1-B, the new battery powered system is quick and simple to install, and can be used to feed up to 20 lubrication points from a single unit; perhaps as importantly, the new system can help both OEMs and end users alike reduce the cost of installing lubrication systems and improve the reliability and operating life of moving components and machinery. To date, lubrication devices used in remote or inaccessible areas have either been powered by batteries or gas cells and, in each case, have generally been single-point devices that eventually require replacement. Additionally, these devices tend only to operate at low pressures and, as the grease or oil reservoir is situated at the remote location, can easily be affected by local changes in temperature, which adversely affects the consistent flow of lubricant. By comparison, the new KFAS1-B system uses an efficient centralised battery pack, running at 18V DC, to power a control unit and lubricant distribution and pump unit that is capable of supplying multiple lubrication points for extended periods. The system is designed to supply grease or oil from a single 1.0 litre reservoir at pressures of up to 150bar, ensuring a consistent flow of lubricant even at extremely low operating temperatures. To maximise battery life and improve overall efficiency, the KFAS1-B system operates only at predetermined intervals, which can easily be set and stored via the control unit, with a three-digit LED providing feedback on system operating status. Depending on application, the battery life can be up to 24 months, with the system being suitable for use with all NLGI grade 1 and 2 lubricants; selected GLPI grade 3 lubricants can also be handled. The KFAS1-B battery powered lubrication system is part of an extensive range of Vogel centralised lubrication solutions available and supported by SKF worldwide