How to properly lubricate a pipe bending machine?

Proper lubrication is key to the stable operation and extended lifespan of a pipe bending machine. Improper lubrication can lead to wear, jamming, and even defects in the bent pipe quality. Lubrication solutions are provided below, categorized by component.

1. Hydraulic System

Oil: Anti-wear hydraulic oil (ISO VG 46 or 68, depending on ambient temperature)

Cycle: Change oil after the first 500 hours, then every 2000-3000 hours or annually; replace filter every 6 months.

Note: Maintain oil temperature between 35-50℃; replace immediately if emulsified or contaminated.

2. Linear Guides and Ball Screws

Oil: Extreme pressure lithium-based grease (NLGI 2) or guideway-specific oil

Cycle: Automatic lubrication pump fills every 4-8 hours; manual lubrication fills weekly.

Note: Clean the guideway surface before lubrication; repair damaged dust covers.

3. Gear Drives (Pipe Bending Arm, Reducer)

Oil: Gear oil (ISO VG 150-220) or extreme pressure grease

Cycle: Check reducer oil level every 6 months, change annually; apply grease weekly to open gears.

Note: Maintain an oil film on the gear surface, but avoid excessive spillage.

4. Dies and Mandrels (Critical!)

Oil: Special pipe bending oil (high extreme pressure, high temperature resistant)

Frequency: Apply a thin layer to the bending die groove, mandrel ball end, and anti-wrinkle die working surface before bending each pipe.

Note: Do not use ordinary machine oil or grease, as they cannot withstand the high-pressure friction of pipe bending and will cause scratches and wrinkles.

5. Bearings and Joints

Oil: General-purpose lithium-based grease

Frequency: Add grease every 3 months; shorten to monthly for high-temperature areas (near friction).

Note: Add grease until the old grease is squeezed out.

6. Other Moving Parts

Exposed parts of mandrel rod and piston rod: Apply rust-preventive and lubricating dual-purpose oil weekly.

Feed rollers and clamping sliders: Add a small amount of machine oil each shift.

Lubrication Key Points Summary

Use different types of oil for different parts; do not mix them.

Die and mandrel must use dedicated pipe bending oil; otherwise, pipe bending quality cannot be guaranteed.

Excessive lubrication is wasteful and causes contamination; insufficient lubrication leads to wear and tear.

Establish a lubrication record sheet, assigning specific personnel, times, and types of oil for lubrication.