Norgren Collateral

Lubricators (cont.) 16 Solutions Q&A 5.1 General overview IMI Norgren manufactures two main types of lubricators: Oil-Fog and Micro- Fog. These units are mounted directly into the pipe and add small amounts of oil to the air flowing through them. Oil Fog-lubricators: All the oil droplets seen in the sight dome are added directly into the air flow. This results in relatively large oil droplets passing downstream, suitable for heavy lubrication applications eg single cylinders and tools. Most competitive in line lubricators are of the Oil-Fog type. Micro-Fog lubricators: The oil droplets seen in the sight dome are atomized and collected in the area above the oil in the bowl. The smaller lighter particles are drawn into the air flow and pass downstream. As a result typically only 10% of the oil seen as drops in the sight dome is passed downstream. The remainder falls back into the oil reservoir. Consequently, drip rate settings are somewhat higher than their Oil- Fog equivalent. This makes setting much easier, particularly in low flow applications. The fine Micro-Fog oil particles can travel long distances through complex pipe work making Micro-Fog lubricators suitable for multiple valve and cylinder circuits. Sight dome Body Flow sensor Check valve Bowl Siphon tube Oil Drain (optional Metal bowl sight glass Oil-Fog lubricator Sight dome Body Flow sensor Generator assembly Bowl Siphon tube Oil Drain (optional) Metal bowl sight glass Micro-Fog lubricator 5.2 Differences between Micro-Fog and Oil-Fog lubricators 5.2.1 Oil-Fog: • Large oil particles not as fine as Micro-Fog. • All oil drips seen in sight domes are delivered downstream. • For applications over short distances. • Should be mounted at same level or higher than device being lubricated. • Standard bowls can be filled under pressure. (Not on rapid cycle units). • Suitable for heavy lubrication applications eg single large cylinders and tools. • Has a flow sensor which provides constant oil output density for varying flows. 5.2.2 Micro-Fog: • Small oil particles; less than 2 micron. • Only 10% of 'drip rate' is delivered downstream as active lubricant (remainder is returned to main oil reservoir). • High drip rates make drip setting easier in low flow applications. • Can be mounted above or below the point of application. • Cannot be filled without shutting off upstream air (unless a quick fill cap or remote fill device is used). • For use with lengthy air lines, multiple valve and cylinder circuits. • Has a flow sensor to provide an almost constant oil output density for varying flows. ? 5.2.3 Can Oil-Fog and Micro-Fog units be converted? Generally not, simply changing a green (Oil-Fog) sight dome for a red (Micro- Fog) sight dome does not change the function.

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