If all industrial gears were always kept in dry, clean, and cool environments, it would not matter what industrial gear oils you chose. However, in the manufacturing plants, steel mills, and other industrial applications where gear-driven operations are used most, the conditions are not in the very least bit cool, clean, or dry. For this reason, choosing the right industrial gear oils can prove to be quite a challenge.
Cleanliness
The smaller gearboxes have to be able to perform the same amount of work as the larger gearboxes in the past. However, they have to do it in small, tight spaces. This means that the loads and speeds are going to be higher. Therefore, the fluid has less time to release foam, demulsify water, dissipate heat, and settle out contaminants.
Lubricants with less viscosity flow through filtration systems easier. Contaminants are removed effectively, which will reduce the risk of damage to bearings or gears. Essentially, this will prolong the life of your equipment. The fluid will need to be changed less frequently, saving you money and reducing downtime.
Durability
Industrial gear oils have to be able to stand up to operating conditions and continue to perform to the same quality for long periods of time. While some fluids seem ideal when they are new, they lose operating performance rapidly. Industrial gear oils should be durable and keep gears in proper running order and protected so as to greatly extend the life of the equipment.
