In an automobile factory, the painting line is the most precise and error-prone link in the entire production chain. The overhead chains that run through the entire painting workshop and are responsible for hanging and transporting car bodies may seem ordinary, but they are crucial to the stability of the entire production rhythm.
Many factories encounter similar problems: chains suddenly jam, make abnormal noises, are not smooth to pull, and may even skip, stretch, or stop. Many people's first reaction is "chain aging" or "mechanical problems," but the real cause is often hidden in the word "lubrication."
The operating environment of the painting line chain is extremely harsh. This chain must traverse the high-humidity environment of the pretreatment area, pass through a drying oven with temperatures exceeding 180°C, and then pass through the dusty and paint-fog-filled spraying area. The combination of moisture, heat, and paint dust makes ordinary lubricating oil simply unable to withstand the conditions.
The frequent problems with the chain stem from four main issues. First, high temperatures cause ordinary oils to evaporate and oxidize rapidly, leaving behind a large amount of carbonized residue, making the chain increasingly heavy. Second, water vapor erosion quickly washes away the oil film, causing the chain surface to rust. Third, paint mist combines with oil to form sludge, significantly increasing the chain's running resistance. Fourth, prolonged high-load operation, if not properly lubricated, can lead to severe wear between the pins and bushings.
Many companies mistakenly believe that "adding more oil will solve the problem," and even use ordinary engine oil or grease. However, in reality, these oils either drip and turn black at high temperatures or cannot enter the pin-bushing area inside the chain, thus failing to provide real lubrication. Instead, they are more likely to attract dust and cause sludge.
The next article will delve into whether to choose "lubricating oil" or "lubricating grease" for automotive paint chains, and how to make the correct choice.Baoxing continues to provide lubrication solutions for the manufacturing industry. If you need recommendations for chain-specific oils or free sample testing, please feel free to send us a private message.
