Graphite Blocks

Dry graphite lubrication for rotary equipment is now available from Phillips.

Phillips Graphite Blocks are available in a number of standard sizes, in various combinations of thickness, width and length.

The weight of the block is sufficient to keep it in constant contact with the carrying roller surface, thereby depositing a thin film of graphite on the rolling surfaces (see illustration). Phillips Graphite Blocks establish long-lasting maintenance free controlled lubrication at a minimum cost.

Holders for the graphite blocks are also available from Phillips.

Phillips Kiln Services can provide graphite blocks of all sizes to meet your specific needs.

Installation of Graphite Blocks

Completely clean rings and rollers of grease or oil before installing graphite blocks and holders.

Install holders on the pinch (down-running) side of the carrying roller and riding ring in an upright or vertical position to allow the complete weight of the graphite block to press down on the roller.

Drill and tap edge of graphite block and install "tee" handle (2 handles on wider blocks). Raise and lower the graphite block by the "tee" handle(s) DAILY to be sure it is free in the holder.

Before checking graphite blocks, clean any product or dirt build-up away from the block.  This will prevent product or dirt from going through the pinch point.

Check graphite block after a week or two of operation to see if any oil or grease has been absorbed by the block.  If so, grind or saw off the affected portion of the block to expose clean graphite.

Two graphite blocks are standard equipment, but sometimes four graphite blocks are required on fast-moving units.

Suggested Method of Lubricating Thrust Rollers

Gear Lubricants

OPG-4, is a new generation lubricant, designed especially for open gear use and is the most effective gear lubricant on the market.

• Reduce gear lube consumption by 50% or more. Once a lubricant film is established on the gear surface, a 125 lb. Keg of OPG-4 can last 2 - 3 months.
• 2 - 4 times the load of other gear lubricants.
• A Four-season Lubricant. OPG-4 remains viscous and pumpable in temperatures down to -50° F.
• Quieter and Cooler OPG-4 smoothes out the gear surface, covers small spalls, and does not squeeze out under pressure.
• Laminates to the Gear Surface. The clean OPG-4 lubricant forms a clean silver-gray film, allowing maintenance personnel to easily spot gear misalignment
• Protects the Gear Surface. The silver-gray protective film is not wet or tacky. It does not pick up contamination, dirt or dust that can accelerate gear wear.

Conversion to OPG-4 is a simple process. In most cases, OPG-4 should be applied to a clean gear surface, but it can be effectively sprayed right over existing lubricant. When applying over existing lubricant, product compatibility should be checked first. Time cycles and application volumes will vary from unit to unit. Please contact your Phillips service engineer for assistance.