SKF has announced the introduction of the LMC 301 controller for lubrication applications where sophisticated control and feedback are required. Designed for use with pumps that have no internal controller, the LMC 301 is very suitable for mining and large process industries.
Compatible with single-line, dual-line and progressive lubrication systems, the LMC 301 can operate three different pumps, and each of those pumps can control up to three zones. Because one unit manages up to nine separate zones, fewer controllers are needed, which reduces system investment. Also, each pump can function as a different system type.
The versatile LMC 301 is an efficient solution for systems that have lubrication points requiring different lubrication intervals or varying types of grease. This controller can handle multiple greases and diverse temperature ranges, and is ideal for critical bearings where it is essential to know that they have been lubricated properly.
SKF also demonstrated a comprehensive range of solutions designed to extend the service life of machinery, improve productivity and reduce unplanned downtime and maintenance in mining.
A featured bearing solution is the upgraded SKF Explorer spherical roller bearing. With improved heat treatment, the upgraded SKF Explorer spherical roller bearings can have a service life twice that of the previous industry leading SKF bearings, especially under contaminated or poor lubrication conditions. The upgraded bearing is also available in a sealed version. This protects the bearing from contamination during assembly into the machinery and during operation with considerably less maintenance.
In addition, with a new design in the smaller sizes, the sealed SKF Explorer spherical roller bearings have up to 50% less seal friction, resulting in reduced operating temperatures by up to 20 °C, enabling doubled operating speeds.
Another solution for the mining and construction industry is the range of SKF Explorer steel/steel plain bearings. With improved corrosion resistance and heavy-duty sealing, these bearings now have a dynamic load rating 50% higher than conventional steel/steel bearings. These bearings can operate maintenance-free and can last significantly longer than even regularly relubricated conventional bearings in applications with low to moderate contamination levels.
“SKF continues to improve our products to provide OEM and end user customers increased reliability and reduced maintenance” says Keith Meyers, SKF’s Global Industry Manager Mining, Mineral Processing and Cement. “This improves their productivity and the safety of their workers.“
