November 2024

Discover maintenance tips for industrial couplings, insights on glycol solutions, and the benefits of partnering with ILS, New Zealand’s leading distributor of Castrol industrial lubricants. Plus, plan ahead with our adjusted Christmas hours.

 

Understanding Industrial Couplings: Types and Maintenance

Industrial couplings are essential components that connect two shafts, facilitating the transmission of power and accommodating misalignment between them. Regular inspection and maintenance are crucial to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Below is an overview of four commonly encountered coupling types:

1. Gear Couplings

• Gear couplings consist of two hubs with external teeth connected by a sleeve with internal teeth. They are designed to transmit high torque and accommodate slight misalignments.
• Maintenance: Gear couplings require regular lubrication to prevent wear and corrosion. It’s essential to monitor for signs of misalignment and wear during scheduled inspections.

 

2. Chain Couplings

• Chain couplings use a roller chain to connect two sprockets, allowing for flexibility and ease of installation. They are suitable for moderate torque applications.
• Maintenance: Regular lubrication is necessary to reduce wear and extend service life. Periodic inspections should focus on chain tension and alignment.

 

3. Grid Couplings

• Grid couplings feature a flexible grid element that connects two flanged hubs, providing high torque transmission and vibration damping.
• Maintenance: These couplings require consistent lubrication to maintain flexibility and prevent wear. Regular checks for grid element wear and proper alignment are recommended.

 

4. Universal Joints

• Universal joints, or U-joints, allow for the transmission of torque between shafts at varying angles, accommodating significant misalignment.
• Maintenance: Regular lubrication is vital to prevent bearing wear and ensure smooth operation. Inspections should assess for signs of wear, corrosion, and proper alignment.

 

Maintenance Best Practices

• Regular Inspections: Implement a routine inspection schedule to assess the condition of couplings and identify any signs of wear, misalignment, or damage.
• Proper Lubrication: Use the manufacturer-recommended lubricants and adhere to specified lubrication intervals to ensure optimal performance.
• Alignment Checks: Ensuring proper alignment of shafts minimizes stress on couplings, preserving their integrity and performance.
• For specific maintenance guidelines and product recommendations, consult the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) instructions. If you require further assistance, please contact the ILS Technical Helpline at 0800 10 40 17.

 

 

Glycol Solutions in Refrigeration Systems

In secondary refrigeration loops, glycol solutions are commonly used as circulating cooling media, especially when extremely low temperatures are not required. The choice between Monoethylene Glycol (MEG) and Monopropylene Glycol (MPG) depends on the application and safety considerations.

Monoethylene Glycol (MEG

• Applications: MEG is widely used in industrial refrigeration systems due to its effective heat transfer properties.
• Considerations: MEG is toxic and should not be used in applications where incidental contact with food or potable water is possible.

Monopropylene Glycol (MPG)

• Applications: MPG is preferred in food processing environments and other applications where low toxicity is essential.
• Considerations: MPG is recognized for its lower toxicity compared to MEG, making it suitable for applications requiring food-grade standards.

Corrosion Inhibition

When glycol solutions are mixed with water, they can become corrosive to system components. To mitigate this, it’s crucial to use glycol formulations that include corrosion inhibitors. These inhibitors protect metal surfaces from corrosion, extending the lifespan of the system.

Product Availability

Industrial Lubricants & Services Ltd (ILS) offers the following products:

• Monoethylene Glycol (MEG): Available in 235 kg drums.
• Food-Grade Monopropylene Glycol (MPG): Available in 215 kg drums.

For more information or to place an order, please get in touch with ILS at 0800 10 40 17.

 

 

Partnering with Castrol to Drive Performance

 

For over a century, Castrol has been at the forefront of innovation, delivering advanced lubricants that power commercial vehicles in some of the most demanding conditions across New Zealand. Whether supporting long-haul transport or tackling the challenges of local fleets, Castrol’s products are rigorously engineered and tested to ensure unmatched reliability, performance, and protection. Castrol Vecton, for example, is a standout product designed to meet the highest OEM standards, offering longer engine life and superior performance for heavy-duty diesel engines.

As New Zealand’s leading Castrol distributor, ILS brings Castrol’s innovations closer to home. With over 300 Castrol products in stock, we provide the most comprehensive range of lubricants tailored to your fleet’s needs. From engine oils to hydraulic fluids, each product is backed by Castrol’s pioneering technology and supported by ILS’s local expertise.

Our locally based expert team offers technical advice and tailored recommendations to ensure your fleet operates at peak performance. Coupled with our exclusive value-add services, such as advanced maintenance programs, we help extend equipment life, minimize downtime, and optimize operations. ILS and Castrol deliver unmatched reliability and innovation to keep your business moving forward.

 

Christmas Hours

As the holiday season approaches, please take note of our adjusted office hours and warehouse dispatch cut-offs for 2024/25. Ensure your orders are placed early to avoid any disruptions during this busy period.

ILS Xmas Hours – 2024/25
Day	Date	ILS Hours
Fri	Dec-20	North Island Warehouse Cut-off 10am South Island Warehouse Normal Cut-off
Mon	Dec-23	North Island Warehouse Normal Cut-off 1pm South Island Warehouse Cut-off 10am
Tue	Dec-24	North Island Warehouse closed no orders dispatched South Island Warehouse Cut-off 10am ILS Office Closes 12 noon
Wed	Dec-25	Closed – Public Holiday
Thu	Dec-26	Closed – Public Holiday
Fri	Dec-27	North Island Warehouse Normal Cut-off 1pm South Island Warehouse Cut-off 10am
Mon	Dec-30	North Island Warehouse Normal Cut-off 1pm South Island Warehouse Cut-off 10am
Tue	Dec-31	North Island Warehouse closed no orders dispatched South Island Warehouse Cut-off 10am ILS Office Closes 12 noon
Wed	Jan-1	Closed – Public Holiday
Thu	Jan-2	Closed – Public Holiday
Fri	Jan-3	North Island Warehouse Normal Cut-off 1pm South Island Warehouse Cut-off 10am