TECHNICAL BULLETINS

Opto-Matic® Installation

Installing

1. Remove reservoir and level adjuster mechanism from lower casting.
2. Be sure that all connecting hardware is free from contaminants (burrs, chips, dirt, etc.) to prevent clogging or damage to the equipment to be lubricated.
3. Connect lower casting to bearing chamber either through the side connection or through the bottom connection (Fig. 1). Use thread compound on all threaded areas, except supplied plug.
4. Verify that assembly is level and parallel with desired oil level (Fig. 2). Make necessary adjustments if required.
5. Set oil level adjuster mechanism. Thread top adjuster arm to desired level, then thread lower adjuster arm together with top to lock into place (Fig. 3).
6. Fill reservoir with oil. Back out set screw on reservoir casting to avoid interference with lower casting upon assembly.
7. Invert and place reservoir over lower casting.
8. Run equipment to check proper lubrication levels. If oil level is too low, remove reservoir and raise arms on level adjuster mechanism slightly, then repeat steps 6 and 7. If oil level is too high, remove reservoir, lower level adjuster arms slightly and drain equipment until oil level is reached, then repeat steps 6 and 7. Turn set screw to hold reservoir assembly in place.
   
   Adjustment tip: Measure distance between bottle and casting edge (Fig. 4-this dimension may vary), replace bottle on adjustment arm in lower casting - mark dimension on outside of lower casting with temporary marker (Fig. 5). This is the level setting.

Operation

1. Overfilling of equipment may occur due to repeated removal and replacement of reservoir. Add oil only when less than 1/3 of reservoir capacity remains to reduce filling frequency.
2. Oiler location with respect to bearing type, rotating speed of equipment, multiple start-ups, slinger rings, etc. may cause the oiler to misfeed. Check lubricant levels periodically to ensure proper application. Mount oiler facing direction of rotation at bottom of shaft (Fig. 6).
3. When environmental conditions such as rain, steam, dust, etc. are a concern, closed system oilers will lessen the chance of lubricant contamination.
4. High airflow conditions (fans, blowers, etc.) may cause the oiler to overfill equipment by creating a pressure imbalance. Vent pipe extensions (out of airflow) may have some effect. Closed system oilers will eliminate this condition.
5. Frequent equipment starts may cause overfilling. This can be minimized by mounting the oiler on the side facing the direction of rotation at the bottom of shaft (Fig. 6).