Oil Mist Lubrication
Oil mist lubrication is a centralized system that atomizes liquid oil into micron-sized droplets (typically 1–5 microns) suspended in low-pressure, filtered dry air, delivering a clean aerosol to bearing housings and rotating components to prevent friction, wear, and contaminant ingress.
In shop floor maintenance, oil mist lubrication is applied by siphoning oil from a reservoir and atomizing it via a Venturi or vortex generator using compressed air. The resulting mist travels through a low-pressure piping network (≤1 psi) to reclassifier fittings at each bearing, where turbulence causes droplets to coalesce into larger drops that adhere to rotating surfaces. This provides continuous lubrication, flushing, and slight positive pressure to exclude contaminants, making it ideal for high-speed bearings (10,000–15,000 rpm) where splash lubrication is ineffective due to centrifugal oil throw-off.
What is the difference between dry mist and wet mist in oil mist systems?
Dry mist (≤3-micron droplets) is transported through piping; it becomes wet mist when passing through a reclassifier, where turbulence increases droplet size for effective bearing lubrication.
Why is oil mist preferred for high-speed bearings (10,000–15,000 rpm)?
Splash lubrication is ineffective at these speeds due to centrifugal oil throw-off; oil mist provides continuous, metered lubrication without friction or overheating.
How does oil mist prevent contaminant ingress?
The carrier air maintains slight positive pressure in the bearing housing, creating an outward airflow that blocks airborne particulates and moisture.