Today’s modern industrial machinery is expected to deliver high precision, reliable operation and long service life. From CNC machining centres and robotic cells to automated production lines, packaging machines and measuring equipment, linear guide systems ensure precise and repeatable motion in a wide range of applications.
In our previous article, we explained how to select the right profile rail guide. However, choosing the right type alone is not enough to ensure that a linear guide system maintains its accuracy and reliability over the long term. Regular, correct lubrication with the appropriate amount of lubricant is just as important.
In this article, we explain why proper lubrication of linear guide systems is essential, when manual relubrication can become challenging, and in which applications it is worth considering an automatic lubrication system.
Why Is Proper Lubrication of Profile Rail Guides Important?
The rolling elements and raceways of profile rail guides are exposed to loads and repetitive motion and, depending on the application, may also be subjected to high speeds and frequent changes in direction. To ensure precise and reliable operation over the long term, the system requires an adequate supply of lubricant.
The role of the lubricant goes beyond simply reducing friction. The lubricating film formed between the rolling elements and raceways helps minimise direct surface contact, reduces wear and helps protect metal surfaces against corrosion. Proper lubrication can also help reduce the harmful effects of contaminants; however, the primary protection against contamination is provided by the seals and wipers of the guide carriage.
Proper lubrication:
- reduces friction and wear,
- contributes to smooth motion,
- helps maintain running accuracy,
- protects the raceways against corrosion,
- can contribute to a longer service life of the guide system,
- supports reliable and dependable operation.
If the amount of lubricant is insufficient or relubrication is carried out too late, the lubricating film may become inadequate. As a result, wear may increase, smoothness and running accuracy may deteriorate, and operating noise may rise. Over time, this can lead to premature component failure and unplanned machine downtime.
It is therefore important to ensure that the lubricant reaches the lubrication points at the intervals and in the quantities specified by the manufacturer. Automatic lubrication systems can provide an effective solution for this, particularly in high-demand applications or equipment operating continuously.
When Does Manual Relubrication Become Challenging?
In many applications, manual relubrication can be a suitable and cost-effective solution. However, this requires easily accessible lubrication points, a clearly defined maintenance schedule, and consistent relubrication at the specified intervals.
As industrial automation continues to advance, an increasing number of machines and systems operate under conditions where regular manual lubrication can be difficult to carry out.
This is particularly true for:
- machines operating continuously or 24/7,
- automated production lines,
- robotic cells,
- high-speed equipment,
- applications with high cycle rates,
- linear axes with frequent changes in direction,
- lubrication points that are difficult or hazardous to access,
- dusty, wet or heavily contaminated environments,
- machines where shutdowns result in significant production losses.
Under these conditions, manual relubrication may be missed, carried out too late, or an incorrect amount of lubricant may be applied. Dosing accuracy can also depend on the person carrying out the maintenance and the equipment used.
When Is It Worth Using an Automatic Lubrication System?
Depending on their design, automatic lubrication systems deliver a controlled amount of lubricant to the lubrication point either continuously or at predefined intervals.
This can help ensure that the lubricant reaches the lubrication points at the required intervals and in the correct quantities, while reducing the need for manual intervention.
An automatic lubrication system can be particularly beneficial when:
- continuous production is essential,
- machine shutdowns involve significant costs,
- the lubrication point is difficult to access,
- manual lubrication may pose an occupational safety risk,
- the machine operates at a high cycle rate,
- the equipment operates under high loads or at high speeds,
- movements are frequent and involve short strokes,
- more predictable maintenance planning is required,
- the machine has multiple lubrication points that require regular lubrication.
Space around linear guides is often limited, so the automatic lubricator can also be connected to the lubrication point via a hose. This can make it possible to lubricate points that are difficult to reach with a manual grease gun.
See It in Action!
The video below shows how an automatic lubrication system works with linear guide systems.
Proper lubrication plays a fundamental role in maintaining the accuracy, operational reliability and service life of linear guide systems. While manual relubrication may be sufficient for simpler applications, automatic lubrication systems can reduce the risk of inadequate or missed lubrication in machines operating under demanding conditions or in continuous operation.
We Offer More Than Products – We Provide Complete Solutions
An automatic lubrication system works most effectively when it is properly selected and configured for the specific machine and operating conditions. That is why we not only offer automatic lubrication systems, but also provide professional support throughout the entire process.
We can support you with:
- selecting the right automatic lubrication system,
- assessing the lubrication points,
- technical consultation,
- selecting the appropriate lubricant,
- questions related to system operation.
You do not have to design the lubrication system on your own – our experts will help you find the solution best suited to your application, whether you are designing a new machine or upgrading existing equipment.
Have Questions? We’re Here to Help!
Every linear guide system operates under different conditions, which means there is no single lubrication solution that is suitable for every application. A properly selected system can contribute to longer service life, greater operational reliability and reduced maintenance costs.
If you are unsure whether manual relubrication is sufficient for your application or whether you need an automatic lubrication system, contact us – we’ll be happy to help!
Our experts will help you select a lubrication solution that matches your linear guide system and operating conditions – whether you are designing a new machine, upgrading existing equipment or improving your maintenance processes.
FAQ
How often should a linear guide system be relubricated?
The relubrication interval depends on several factors, including the type of guide system, load, speed, stroke length and environmental conditions. When determining the appropriate interval, always start with the manufacturer’s guidelines and then take the actual operating conditions of the application into account.
When is manual relubrication sufficient?
Manual relubrication can be suitable when the lubrication points are easily and safely accessible, the machine can be shut down periodically, and the specified maintenance schedule can be followed consistently.
When should you choose an automatic lubrication system?
An automatic solution can be beneficial when the machine operates continuously, the lubrication point is difficult to access, the application has a high cycle rate, or reducing manual maintenance tasks and downtime is important.
Can automatic lubrication prevent linear guide system failures?
Automatic lubrication alone cannot prevent every type of failure. However, a properly selected and configured system can reduce the risk of wear and damage caused by inadequate lubrication.
Which lubricant should you use for profile rail guides?
When selecting a lubricant, always start with the specifications provided by the guide system manufacturer. The load, speed, temperature, environmental conditions and technical requirements of the automatic lubrication system should also be taken into account.
