Optimisation of Grease Dispensation for Heavy-duty Mining Excavators

Abstract

This work deals with improvement of the control of lubricant dispensation for automatic centralized lubrication system on heavy-duty mining excavators. The method adopted toachieve this includes analysis of mechanical, electrical and electronic components of the existing system. Subsequently, modifications were made on the system. Mechanical and electrical components were selected to control dispensation of lubricant whilst electronic components were selected to interact via communicating electrical signal to electrical components. Grease manifold block and current regulating solenoid valve were selected to work with a grease control module that communicates with a motion logic control module through a control area network connected to excavator joystick and pedal. Lubricant savings of 60.80 cm3/min (0.0608 litres/min) which amounts to annual savings of $ 62,102.09 per annum, can be made with the proposed modification in a typical mining excavator.