Fundamental of Oiler
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Transcript of Fundamental of Oiler
Effective Constant Level Lubrication
Oil Sump Lubrication
I ndustrial equipment including pumps, blowers, gearboxes, drives and compressors
frequently use an oil sump to lubricate, control temperature and prevent corrosion of
bearings and gears. Although it is a simple method of lubrication by design, a lack of
understanding of the basic lubrication principles will often lead to poor application
and neglect. This often leads to premature equipment failures, frequent oil changes
and increased maintenance costs. This article outlines the critical elements of oil
sump lubrication, and how to properly select and use constant level oilers to ensure
effective oil sump lubrication.
Lubrication Principles The oil sump is frequently selected by machine designers as a low-cost, low-
maintenance, low-risk approach to maintaining component lubrication. Bearings and
gears often run in sumps designed to supply a lubricant to loaded surfaces. The
lubricant prevents wear, removes heat, removes contaminants, prevents corrosion,
etc.
The oil level in a bearing or gear sump must be maintained within a narrow range to
assure that the component receives the correct amount of lubricant coverage. For
bearings, although there is some debate regarding the most effective depth of
contact, the amount of contact between the rolling element and the oil is generally
not considered a specific measurement, as long as the bearing receives a complete
coating of oil to sustain the critical oil film. However, a good rule of thumb is that the
bearing should have half of the element covered in oil when the bearing is not
turning. The most important considerations are speed, oil viscosity and load.
Gear lubrication is generally accomplished when one gear is submersed in lubricant,
which then transfers oil to the other gears, shafts and seals. In some cases, an idler
gear turns in the lubricant, transferring the oil between gears through direct contact.
A good rule of thumb for oil level for sump-lubricated gears is that the level should
completely cover the tooth of the gear sitting at the lowest position in the drive when
the gear is idle.
Figure 1. High-Low Level
If the level of lubricant in the sump is too high or too low, excessive heat will be
generated accelerating the degradation of the oil and shortening the life of the
bearing (Figure 1). When the level of oil is too high, churning occurs, which is similar
to the result of using an eggbeater when air is whipped into the oil. This, along with
the induced heat, increases the oxidation rate, shortening the effective life of the oil.
When the oil level is too low, contact is insufficient to lubricate (provide oil film) the
bearing or gear, and to act as a heat sink to carry away the normal levels of heat
generated by the bearing.
Figure 2. Opto-matic Oiler
Maintaining the Correct Level of Oil Perhaps the most widely used method of maintaining the proper lubricant level in a
bearing housing is the constant level oiler. Simple by design, the constant level oiler
replenishes oil lost by leakage through seals, vents (mist) and various connections
and plugs in the bearing housing. Once the proper level is established, replacing the
oil in the reservoir is accomplished by periodically refilling the bottle.
One such constant level oiler is the glass Opto-Matic® made by Trico Mfg. Corp.
(Figure 2). This oiler consists of a glass reservoir mounted in a die cast collar which
slides over a die cast base, or surge chamber. A beveled cap, attached to the bottom
of the glass reservoir, ensures reliable oil delivery (Figure 3). It is at the surface of
this cap that the level of oil is maintained, referred to as the control point, in both
the oiler base and the equipment-housing sump. The cap/reservoir assembly sits on
top of a level adjuster assembly that is inserted into the base, or surge chamber.
Consistent oil sump level maintenance can be achieved by properly setting the
adjuster assembly. Tightening the setscrew on the reservoir collar eliminates
movement due to vibration and handling that can cause the oiler to feed more than
needed.
Other types of constant level oilers incorporate a tubular spout. This design differs
from the glass reservoir/cap style by moving the level control point from the base of
the reservoir to the spout opening (Figure 4). It is important to understand where
the level is established in the constant level oiler in relation to the desired level in
the housing oil sump. Depending on the oiler design, a simple mark on the base can
effectively provide consistent level control.
Figure 3. Bevel on Oiler
Figure 4. Control Point on Spout Some constant level oilers are designed to be nonadjustable which eliminates the
potential of incorrect level settings. The Watchdog® oiler combines both a viewport
and oiler in one assembly (Figure 5). Because it is mounted on a port even with the
desired oil sump level, there is no requirement for adjustment.
Figure 5. Watchdog Oilers
Identifying and Correcting Problems The leading causes of incorrect oil sump levels include the following:
• Incorrect constant level oiler settings
• Pressure differentials
• Oiler location
• Shift-change syndrome
• Blocked or plugged fittings
• Improper filling methods
Incorrect Oiler Settings Review the instruction sheet provided with the oiler for a better understanding of
how to adjust and set the device for proper use. Understanding where the control
point is can greatly reduce problems associated with low or high levels of oil in the
sump. Oil temperature and viscosity can affect the feeding of oil. A meniscus forms
under the bottle, or spout of a constant level oiler before it feeds. The degree to
which this occurs depends on the oil’s surface tension (which changes as the oil
ages), and resistance to flow (viscosity) of the oil, and the oiler design. Check oil
levels in comparison to oiler settings to confirm proper adjustment under varying
viscosities and operating conditions.
Pressure Differential Airflow across equipment housings generated by fans, blowers and even the
equipment motor can be sufficient to create a pressure differential between the
bearing housing and the oiler reservoir, causing the oiler to overfill the sump -
resulting in a level that is too high. Equipment operating temperature changes can
also create pressure differentials, depending on the housing configuration including
seals, vents and oilers. In some instances, pressure can increase in the housing,
which can lower the level by pushing the sump oil back into the oiler or level sight
(when equipped). Pressure increases/decreases can be controlled by closing the
housing through the use of nonvented oilers, replacement of vents with expansion
chambers, and proper seal selections.
Oiler Location Gears and bearings create currents and flows in an oil sump housing. Depending on
viscosity and speed, the proximity of the oiler to these currents can cause unwanted
oiler feed. The most common fix for this condition is to mount the oiler either on the
opposite side of the housing, or farther away from these currents and flows.
Shift-Change Syndrome Shift-change syndrome describes how an oil sump can become overfilled by frequent
removal and replacement of the constant level oiler reservoir. Maintenance personnel
are often instructed to keep the reservoir of the oiler completely full. Tests have
shown that frequent removal and replacement of the constant level oiler reservoir
result in an increased level of oil in the equipment sump. For example, when
simulating a removal/replacement sequence once every eight hours for ten days, the
level in an ANSI style process pump was raised 1/8-inch. It is recommended that the
level of oil in the reservoir be kept half-full at a minimum, which will reduce the
number of refills. If the oiler needs to be filled frequently, locate the source of the oil
loss. This should not be considered a normal operating condition.
Blocked or Plugged Fittings It is important to check the connection fitting between the oiler and the housing to
verify that there is no blockage. When oil becomes oxidized or contaminated, it can
easily plug this fitting, which is commonly 1/4-inch NPT or smaller. If this occurs, the
oiler will not feed, and the oil level in the sump can become dangerously low. This is
easy to check by removing the oiler during oil changes and looking at the fitting
opening.
Improper Filling Methods The two most common mistakes when filling an oil sump housing are filling from the
top of the housing until the oil level is visually correct, and filling through the
constant level oiler base until it is full.
When filling from the top of the housing, it is important to know the required volume
of oil for the sump. For example, if it is known that the sump capacity is two quarts,
then it is safe to use this method for filling. If the capacity is unknown, filling from
the top until the level is verified through a sight gauge will result in a high level -
after the oil drains from the shaft, gears or other components.
Filling through the oiler base while using a sight gauge can be effective. However, if
oil is added to the oiler base until it is full, without the use of a gauge, the level in
the sump will be too high. A constant level oiler can only control the level by
replacing lost oil volume, it can’t reduce high levels.
The Watchdog-type oiler is designed for accurate filling by eliminating the adding of
oil from the housing top and combining a sight gauge for instant, accurate filling of
an oil sump.
Constant level lubricators have been used effectively to maintain the level of oil in
equipment for decades. Proper selection, installation and maintenance of these oilers
are all important aspects in achieving the desired result of reliable oil sump
lubrication. These lubricating devices help to eliminate unnecessary oil changes,
reducing equipment repairs and minimizing equipment maintenance requirements.
Constant Level Oilers - Seven Mistakes to Avoid When Installing, Applying and Refilling
Constant level oilers are designed to maintain a predetermined oil level in a sump,
which is necessary for proper lubrication. If the oil level drops below this point, the
depleted oil is automatically replenished by the lubricator, returning it to its original
level. Constant level oilers can also help increase maintenance efficiencies and
decrease maintenance costs and loss of production time. Even though constant level
oilers are simplistic and easy to install, problems can still arise. Care should be taken
when installing, applying and refilling these units.
Installation and Application Prior to installing a constant level oiler, shaft rotation direction must be determined.
If a side-mounted connection is required, the recommended placement is on the side
of the equipment, facing the direction of shaft rotation (Figure 1).
Figure 1. Side-mounted Connection
This positioning protects the oiler from oil sump surges that can occur during start-
up, which may cause the oiler to overfeed. If frequent start-ups are necessary, the
bottom-mount configuration is recommended (Figure 2). In some cases, eddy
currents and oil turbulence can form due to slinger rings, discs and high rotating
speeds. These currents can temporarily alter the level of the oil and ultimately cause
the oiler to overfeed. When these rings or discs are present, mount the lubricator
using the bottom fitting, and connect it to the bottom of the equipment’s sump
(Figure 2). Check lubricant levels periodically to ensure proper application.
Figure 2. Bottom-mounted Connection
Many oilers contain a small vertical stem. Some are fixed to the unit, and others are
part of a leveling assembly (Figure 3).
Figure 3. Level Adjustment Assembly
The purpose of this stem is to break the meniscus, allowing the oil to feed properly
through the unit. Often times, when these stems are part of a removable assembly,
they are discarded during maintenance, causing the oiler to misfeed or not feed at
all. Prior to installation, or after maintenance, verify that all parts of the lubricator
are present.
Figure 4. Cross-section of Optomatic
When using a constant level oiler that is vented to the outside atmosphere, it is
important to keep the oiler and/or the breather vent away from any air flow near the
equipment. This air flow can come from any type of fan, such as a blower or motor
fan. Fans create an air flow over the breather vent or the oiler, causing a pressure
differential between the bearing housing and the oiler, leading to misfeeding.
To prevent this, install an extension pipe nipple on either the breather vent or the
oiler connection. Replacing the vented constant level oiler with a nonvented or closed
system oiler is another solution that also eliminates contaminant ingression.
Figure 5. Pressure Differential from Air Flow
A closed system oiler’s operation and installation considerations are similar to those
of a vented oiler. However, the closed system requires a vent tube to be connected
from the lubricator to the bearing housing for pressure equalization. Also available
are additional types of closed systems oilers that mount directly on equipment that
has a port at the centerline of the oil level. This type of mounting does not allow the
fluid level to adjust, thus eliminating potential installation errors.
Figure 6. Installation of Extension Pipe
Note: When installing an extension pipe on the
vented oiler in a side-mount configuration,
do not use an elbow fitting, because this will
change the fluid level in the oil sump.
Improper Filling Methods Care should be taken when replenishing fluids to predetermined levels.
Understanding proper filling methods is important in preventing overfilling of the
sump. Although constant level oilers are simplistic in function, several mistakes are
often made, such as filling through the top or the surge body and refilling too
frequently.
When filling through the top of the equipment, knowing the required oil volume is
necessary to achieve the preset level. If the oil quantity is known, then this method
is considered to be a safe filling procedure. However, more times then not, the oil
quantity is unknown and the oil is haphazardly poured through the top, using a sight
gauge to determine the level. Unfortunately, this will result in a high fluid level due
to residual lubricant draining from the internal components such as a shaft or gear.
Figure 7. Closed System Opto-Matic
Proper oil volume can be achieved through the surge body when a sight gauge is
present. The sight gauge is a visual aid for achieving the predetermined fluid level in
the sump. Filling without a sight gauge can cause overfilling of the oil sump and
surge body. An indication of overfilling is that fluid begins flowing from the surge
body once the reservoir is replaced. To adjust for overfilling, drain the lubricant from
the sump until the constant level oiler begins feeding, and reaches the preset level.
In addition, excessive refilling of the reservoir will also have a negative effect on the
oil level. Each time the reservoir is removed and replaced, a small amount of
lubricant is added to the oil sump level. Over time, this will increase the fluid level.
To combat this, refill the reservoir only when it is half full or less. This will help
minimize unnecessary filling.
Figure 8. Watchdog Constant Level Oiler
Constant level oilers are an easy and effective method of maintaining proper oil level
in equipment. Proper installation and usage will provide optimum performance of the
lubricator as well as the equipment it supplies. By implementing the recommended
guidelines, efficient and effective lubrication management can be achieved.
Constant-level Oilers
A constant-level oiler is used to maintain the fluid level in a piece of equipment that
naturally depletes fluid through use, wear, friction, misting or evaporation.
As oil is depleted in equipment, such as bearings, gearboxes, pillow blocks or pump
housings due to its natural operation and the generation of heat from friction, the
level of fluid changes. A constant-level oiler can be used to maintain optimum
performance.
The operation is based on the liquid seal principle: as fluid is depleted in the
equipment, the liquid seal on the spout inside the constant-level oiler is broken.
When this occurs, air enters into the oil reservoir from the air vent. This releases the
fluid from the reservoir and allows it to flow into the equipment until the liquid seal
reestablishes itself.
An automatic constant-level oiler can be used for antifriction, sleeve, roller, ball,
tapered, spherical or slinger bearings involving excessive backpressure. Applications
include fans, motors, blowers, gearboxes or other equipment where a constant level
of fluid needs to be maintained. Constant-level oilers are most useful in paper mills,
cement plants, coal handling mills or industries with similarly dirty environments,
because the sumps are opened less frequently.
Basic Design and Operation In situations where pressure or a vacuum is generated in the sump, it is preferable
to provide a vent line back to the equipment housing above the oil level to equalize
the pressure. By equalizing the pressure between the oiler and the equipment
(Figure 1), the level is more accurately maintained, creating a closed-loop system. In
the event that there is no place to pipe the air vent back to the equipment, a filtered
vent plug at the reservoir can be used to prevent environmental contaminants from
entering the system. Figures 2 and 3 show the two fluid connection points, of which
either point can be used for installation or drain. One is located on the side of the
housing while the other one is on the bottom. These points will vary by design.
Figure 1. Style CS
The liquid level in the oil reservoir is visible through a clear reservoir available in
acrylic or glass and in various sizes. Maximum temperature rating is 160ºF for acrylic
and 225ºF for glass. The reservoir is mounted airtight on the base to prevent
contaminants from entering. The reservoir is easily refilled through the cap on top
port which will automatically shut off the flow while being refilled. Operation will
resume when the cap is returned and secured. It may be necessary to repeat the fill
process until the fluid reaches the optimum level and no longer drains from the
reservoir when the cap is installed.
Constant level oilers may be installed remotely or directly to the reservoir. A liquid
level line is marked on the base of the constant-level oiler for ease in aligning to the
proper oil level.
Figure 2. Style CS Adjustable
With certain equipment, high levels of oil can be carried to the upper portion of the
housing during operation. Upon shutdown, this oil surges back to the reservoir
establishing a high oil level. Should this amount of oil overtake the capacity of the
reservoir, it will flow into the vent line (Style CS) and dissipate or in the case of
those piped to the sump through the vent line, will run back to the housing.
A constant level oiler is installed with the oil level mark at the exact height at which
the fluid in the housing is to be maintained. It should be level with short, rigid
connections to avoid vibration. The air vent is sometimes equipped with a filter when
vented to the atmosphere. The air vent can also be connected back to the top of the
gearbox or housing for a closed circuit.
Constant level oilers have been known to operate for years or even decades without
maintenance. Degraded seals are the most likely cause of an operating problem. The
oiler can be tested by plugging the fluid outlets with pipe plugs, refilling the
reservoir, tightening the cap and observing for leakage. The oil should seek and stay
at the oil level mark over the course of several hours. If the seals are faulty, the oil
will fill the viewing port and seep out the vent hole. In the case of faulty seals, it is
advisable to replace the entire unit.
Figure 3. Style C
Installation Proper installation of the oiler will assure maximum long-term operation. Key issues
that must be addressed during installation include:
1. Verify that the oil level is clearly marked on the base of the oiler. Mount the
oiler by using side or bottom outlet at the desired level.
2. The correct oil level is the lowest level at which the bearing operates properly,
which should be at the middle of the element measured at the six o’clock
position in the race.
3. Lubricator must be level in all directions to function properly.
4. All connecting pipes should be short, rigid and close to the housing to avoid
vibration.
5. Assure that the housing is filled at initial installation. Fill the housing through
the oiler. Repeated filling may be necessary.
6. Verify that the filler cap is tightly fastened. Removing the filler cap will shut
off oil supply. Loose filler cap will cause leakage.
7. The sump should be fitted with sight glass to confirm oiler operation.
Troubleshooting A variety of table-top tests may be conducted to identify and resolve issues in the
installation and maintenance of constant level oilers. A simple preventive
maintenance inspection can be conducted as follows:
1. Secure oiler so it is level in all directions.
2. Plug outlets with pipe plugs.
3. Remove fill cap and fill reservoir completely.
4. Quickly screw fill cap back on the reservoir. Note: Closing the fill cap allows
the check valve to open, thus allowing oil to fill the sight glass.
5. When the fill cap is tightened securely, the oil in the sight glass should seek a
level at or near the level mark shown in the casting.
6. Leave oiler to sit for several hours. If it continues to hold oil at the initial
level, the oiler is working properly. If oil appears to be filling the sight glass
completely, and is seeping out of the vent hole, the seals in the unit are bad
and the seals should be replaced.
A constant level oiler is disclosed which includes an adjustable nozzle assembly for
establishing the operating or working level of the oil lubricant in the oil chamber and to a
user assembly. A tool is further disclosed which is insertable into the oiler chamber for
making the desired nozzle assembly adjustments.
1. For use with a constant level oiler having a nozzle assembly and a bottom opening
providing access to the nozzle assembly, said nozzle assembly including a tubular
member supported in the oiler and being threaded exteriorly, an internally threaded spout
member engageable on the free end of said tubular member and projecting axially
downward beyond the end of the tubular member, and a hollow lock nut threadedly
engaged within the spout member and adapated to abut on the end of the tubular member
to lock the spout member relative to the tubular member; a spout member adjustment tool
insertable through the bottom opening of the oiler and including a wrench engageable
within the opening of the lock nut, a sleeve on said wrench engageable with the spout,
said wrench and sleeve being separately manipulatable to first rotate the lock nut and
thereby free the spout member for rotation, rotate the spout member to effect adjusting
movement vertically to a new position of adjustment, and thereafter rotate the lock nut to
again abut the end of the tubular member and thereby relock the spout member in its
newly adjusted position.
2. The structure as set forth in claim 1 wherein the end of the spout member that projects
downwardly beyond the end of the tubular member is provided with at least one
vertically extending notch, and the end of the tool sleeve engageable with the spout
member is provided with at least one radially projecting prong engageable within the
notch of the spout member.
3. The structure as set forth in claim 1 wherein the end of the spout member that projects
downwardly beyond the end of the tubular member is provided with a plurality of
vertically extending notches, and the end of the tool sleeve engageable with the spout
member is provided with a plurality of radially projecting prongs corresponding to and
engageable within the notches of the spout member.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to a constant level oiler with an adjustable nozzle assembly for
establishing the operating or working level of the oil lubricant to a user assembly, and to
a tool for making nozzle asembly adjustments.
Most constant level oilers formerly were not adjustable to establish the working level of
the oil lubricant to a user assembly. When a remote mounting for the oiler was provided,
the mounting height could be altered to attain an adjustment. When remote mounting was
not provided, ane the level of the oil lubricant was to be raised, the constant level oiler
could be disassembled and its nozzle shortened as by filling. At other times the direct
mounting tube had to be altered or replaced to make a needed adjustment. Generally,
installation of a new oiler, or an adjusting alteration of an existing installation, proved to
be a time consuming job.
The oilers that were adjustable are provided with a telescoping oil chamber wherein the
reservoir along with a fixed nozzle and oil chamber bonnet are movable as a unit to adjust
the working level of the oil lubricant. In these oilers set screws fastened externally
secure the movable unit in adjusted position. Generally, the arrangement is suited only to
oilers of relatively small reservoir capacity and is not tamperproof.
It is generally an object of this invention to provide a constant level oiler which is
adjustable to establish the working level of the oil lubricant to a user assembly for most
any size of reservoir, and because the adjustment is made internally of the oiler, it will be
tamperproof.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The invention is directed to a constant level oiler having an oil lubricant chamber. A
nozzle assembly is supported at its upper end within the oiler and projects downwardly
into the chamber and serves to establish the working or operating level of the oil lubricant
in the chamber. The nozzle assembly comprises a pair of threadedly engaged tubular
members with one of the members projecting downwardly beyond the end of the other of
said members and is movable vertically relative to the other of said members to provide
for adjustment of the operating level of the oil lubricant in the chamber. Means are
further provided to lock the nozzle assembly members in any desired position of
adjustment.
The invention further resides in a tool for making an oil lubricant level adjustment in the
chamber of the constant level oiler. The tool is insertable through a bottom opening
aligned with and providing access to the spout of the nozzle assembly. The tool includes
first means engageable with the lock means and a second means engageable with the
spout. The first and second means of the tool are separately manipulatable to initially
unlock the lock means, effect and adjusting movement of the spout to a new position of
adjustment, and thereafter to relock the spout relative to the nozzle assembly.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING FIGURES
The drawings furnished herewith illustrate the best mode presently contemplated for
carrying out the invention and are described hereinafter.
In the drawings:
FIG. 1 is a side elevation partially in section of a constant level oiler provided with a
nozzle assembly having an adjustable spout;
FIG. 2 is a view taken generally on lines 2--2 of FIG. 1 and shows the adjustable spout in
factory set position and in dashed lines generally indicates the range of possible
adjustment for the spout;
FIG. 3 is a side elevation partially in section and shows a constant level oiler as generally
installed for lubricating a bearing and with pressure equalized between the oiler and
bearing;
FIG. 4 is a side elevation partially in section of a tool for adjusting the spout of the nozzle
assembly to provide for the proper oil level for lubrication;
FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the tool of FIG. 4;
FIG. 6 is an enlarged end elevation of the tool taken generally on line 6--6 of FIG. 4; and
FIG. 7 is a sectional view showing the tool of FIG. 4 in engaged position to make a
desired adjustment for the spout.
DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATED EMBODIMENT
Referring to the drawings, the constant level oiler 10 of FIG. 1 provides for and maintains
a constant level of oil lubricant in a user assembly, now shown, such as a bearing, gear
case, pillow block, etc.
The oiler 10 includes an oil supply reservoir 11 provided with a hollow threaded base
fitting 12 for mounting engagement within the threaded opening 13 of the hollow lower
body 14. Oil from the reservoir 11 passes through a plurality of passages 15 in the base
fitting 12, the body opening 13, and the nozzle assembly 16 into the oil chamber 17 of the
body 14. The level of the oil in chamber 17 may be observed through the sightglass 18.
The reservoir 11 is provided with a tubular column 19 centrally having a bore 20 therein.
The stem 21 of a closure valve 22 is slidably disposed in the bore 20 and is normally
biased to close the valve against the annular seat 23 in the base fitting 12.
The oil in the reservoir 11 is replenished through an upper opening which is closed by the
filler cap 24. When the filler cap 24 is removed, the valve 22 is biased to the closure
position against the seat 23 so that the oil level in chamber 17 and the user assembly
remains unaffected during oil replenishment. When the filler cap 24 is replaced in closure
position, a downwardly extending projection, not shown, extends from the cap 24 into the
bore 20 and engages with the upper end of the valve stem 21 to reopen the valve 22 and
reestablish communication between the reservoir 11 and the chamber 17. The reservoir
11 and the passage to and through the nozzle assembly 16 must be airtight for the proper
operation of the oiler 10.
The body 14 is provided with a threaded opening 25 in the base thereof somewhat larger
and in alignment with the free end of the nozzle assembly 16. The opening 25 is normally
closed by a threaded plug 26. The chamber 17 communicates with the user assembly
through the tubular member 27 which is secured to the body 14 by the threaded fitting 28
engaged in the side opening 29. The side opening 29 is provided relatively low in relation
to the chamber 17. The chamber 17 is also vented to the atmosphere through the threaded
opening 30 in the body 14 into which a filter fitting 31 is normally engaged to preclude
the entry of any deleterious matter. The vent opening 30 is generally placed as high as
possible relative to chamber 17 to provide an adequate capacity for oil that surges back
into the chamber upon shut-down at the user assembly.
The nozzle assembly 16 of the oiler 10 includes a funnel-shaped nozzle member 32. The
member 32 is provided with an annular radial flange 33 exteriorly and adjacent to the
relatively wide mouth thereof for seating on the annular shoulder 34 provided in the
stepped opening 13 of the body member 14. The member 32 is held in place by the lower
end of the base fitting 12 with an O-ring seal 35 wedged therebetween.
The lower cylindrical portion of the funnel-shaped member 32 is threaded externally to
receive the internally threaded spout member 36 on the end thereof. The free open end of
the spout member 36 is provided with a pair of diametrically opposed, generally
rectangular recesses or notches 37 the upper ends of which establish the desired operating
level of the oil lubricant in the chamber 17 and the user assembly. The width of the
notches 37 is also believed to determine the size of the air bubbles vented into the
reservoir 11 when the liquid seal along the upper edge of the notches is broken as the oil
level in chamber 17 drops because of oil consumption in the user assembly. When the
liquid seal at the notches 37 is broken, the air vented into the otherwise airtight reservoir
11 releases adequate oil lubricant to reestablish the liquid seal and thereby maintain the
oil level in the chamber 17 generally constant.
The spout 36 is adjustable relative to the funnel-shaped member 32 as indicated by the
dashed lines in FIG. 2 which generally show the range of possible adjustment. The solid
line position of FIG. 2 generally indicates the factory set position which is about midway
relative to the range of possible adjustment. An annular exteriorly threaded lock nut 38 is
threaded inside the spout member 36 to engage the lower end of the member 32 with a
sealing ring 39 wedged therebetween to lock the spout member relative to the member 32
in any position of adjustment.
The constant level oiler 40 of FIG. 3 is similar in many respects to the oiler 10 of FIG. 1
and like reference numerals are used to designate parts that are generally the same.
In the oiler 40 the reservoir 11 is mounted on a lower body 41 having no sightglass for
viewing the interior of the chamber 42. The threaded bottom opening 25 of body member
41 is closed by a longer threaded plug 43 adapted to receive the nuts 44 and 45 for
securing a mounting member, shown in part, therebetween to mount the oiler 40 remote
but generally adjacent to the user assembly.
The oiler 40 is shown installed to provide oil lubricant for an anti-friction bearing 46, the
lower end of which communicates with the chamber 42 through the tube 27. As was
described relative to the oiler 10, the oil lubricant level in the bearing 46 is established by
the height or level of the upper edges of the notches 37 of the spout member 36 in
chamber 42 of the oiler 40. In the installation of FIG. 3 the pressure in the bearing 46 and
the chamber 42 are equalized through the tube 47 which extends from the upper portion
of the bearing housing for connection to the vent opening 30 in the bodh 41 by the
threaded fitting 48.
The factory set position of the spout member 36 in the oilers 10 and 40 may not accord
with the needs of the customer, making some adjustment of the spout member relative to
the nozzle member 32 necessary. While a customer can disassemble the oiler to make the
needed spout member adjustment, such a course is not only time consuming, but is also
done at some risk of improper reassembly, particularly at the several sealed connections.
To avoid such a course, the tool 49 may be utilized to make any needed spout member
adjustment.
As shown in FIGS. 4-6, the tool 49 generally consists of two principal elements; namely,
a hex wrench 50 and a cylindrical sleeve 51. The hex wrench 50 includes a T-handle 52
providing for finger manipulation. Intermediate its length, the hex wrench 50 is also
provided with a radially reduced cylindrical section 53. The sleeve 51 is slidable over the
hex wrench 50 as generally shown in FIG. 4 and is provided with a hole 54 intermediate
its length. With the sleeve 51 disposed on the hex wrench 50, a press fit pin 55 projecting
radially through the hole 54 at the reduced section 53 of the wrench makes the sleeve
captive on the wrench but movable longitudinally thereon within limits set by the T-
handle 52 at the one end and the interference between the pin 55 and the enlarged hex
portion of the wrench at the free or working end of the tool 49. The assembled hex
wrench 50 and sleeve 51 are separately rotatable either clockwise or counterclockwise.
The end portion of the sleeve 51 adjacent to the T-handle 52 is provided with a knurled
portion 56 to provide for easy finger manipulation. Adjacent to the opposite or working
end of the sleeve 51, a pair of diametrically opposed prongs 57 project angularly
outwardly.
If needed, adjustment of the spout member 36 relative to the nozzle member 32 is
ordinarily effected prior to installation of the oiler. In any event, such an adjustment must
be made when the oiler is empty of oil lubricant content.
To make an adjustment of the spout member 36 relative to the nozzle member 32, it is
necessary to open the bottom outlet 25 to permit the insertion of the working end of the
tool 49 through the opening. Initially the working end of the hex wrench 50 is engaged
within the hex opening 58 of the internal lock nut 38 and the working end of the sleeve
51 is engaged within the open end of the spout member 36 with the diametrically
opposed prongs 57 engaged with the corresponding notches 37 at the end of the spout
member as generally shown in FIG. 7.
The relative position of the end of the spout member 36 prior to adjustment can be
ascertained initially relative to a pair of axially spaced lines or marks 59 and 60
impressed on the outer surface of the sleeve 51. The space between the lines 59 and 60
corresponds to the full range of adjustment possible for the spout member 36. When the
spout member 36 is to be adjusted from the factory set position which is generally at the
midpoint of the range of adjustment, that position will be ascertainable relative to the
sleeve 51 at the exit plane 61 of the bottom outlet 25 where the exit plane extends
generally midway between the lines 59 and 60 as generally shown in FIG. 7. From the
position illustrated in FIG. 7, adjustment of the spout member 36 either up or down is
possible with the limit of adjustment being indicated when the respective lines 59 and 60
coincide with the exit plane 61.
To make an adjustment of the spout member 36 upward to raise the level of the oil
lubricant in the user assembly from the position shown in FIG. 7, the hex wrench 50 is
turned in a counterclockwise direction to loosen and adequately back off the lock nut 38
and the sleeve 51 is rotated to provide the amount of upward adjustment desired for the
spout member. After the spout member 36 has reached its adjusted position, the hex
wrench 50 is rotated in a clockwise direction to relock the spout member in the newly
adjusted position.
For an adjustment of the spout member 36 downwardly to lower the level of the oil
lubricant in the user assembly from the position of FIG. 7, the hex wrench 50 is first
again manipulated to loosen the lock nut 38 and thereafter the sleeve 51 is rotated to
provide for downward adjustment of the spout member to the level desired. When the
adjustment for the spout member 36 is completed, the lock nut 38 is again driven by the
hex wrench 50 to relock the spout member.
The invention thus provides a constant level oiler having an adjustable nozzle assembly
for establishing the operating level of the oil lubricant to the user assembly. The
invention further provides a tool that provides for easy, rapid and accurate adjustment of
the operating level for the oil lubricant fed to the user assembly by the constant level
oiler. Since only the spout of the nozzle assembly is affected in the adjustment process,
the balance of the oiler can remain standard even over a relatively wide range of reservoir
sizes. Since the adjustments are made interiorly of the oiler, the settings are generally
tamperproof.
Various modes of carrying out the invention are contemplated as being within the scope
of the following claims particularly pointing out and distinctly claiming the subject
matter which is regarded as the invention.