The truck-mounted crane, with its full name being “truck-mounted lifting transporter,” is a crucial piece of equipment widely utilized in various settings such as docks, warehouses, factories, and construction sites. These locations often present challenging environmental conditions, especially on construction sites where dust, debris, and other contaminants are abundant. As a result, during the operation of truck-mounted cranes in such environments, the lubricating oil is prone to becoming “dirty” as various impurities and sediments easily mix into it. This poses a significant dilemma for many truck-mounted crane drivers. Changing the lubricating oil frequently can seem wasteful and costly, yet leaving the impurities in the oil raises concerns about potential damage to vehicle parts. It truly is a thorny problem that requires a practical solution. In this article, we will explore effective methods to easily remove impurities from the lubricating oil of truck-mounted cranes.
First, let’s delve into mechanical impurities. What exactly are mechanical impurities? Mechanical impurities refer to the total amount of substances that are insoluble in oil and specified solvents in petroleum and some petroleum products. These substances can include sediment, dust, iron filings, fibers, and some insoluble salts. The presence of mechanical impurities can have several detrimental effects. For light oils, they can block the oil circuit, promoting the formation of rubber or causing corrosion. In the case of boiler fuels, mechanical impurities can block the nozzle, reducing combustion efficiency and increasing fuel consumption. For lubricating oils, mechanical impurities are particularly troublesome as they can destroy the oil film, leading to increased wear on engine parts. They can also block the oil filter and promote the formation of carbon deposits.
The sources of mechanical impurities are mainly twofold. Firstly, they can come from external dirt that enters the oil during the production, storage, and use of oil products. For example, in a construction site environment, dust and debris can easily find their way into the lubricating oil system. Secondly, mechanical impurities can also result from the wear of the machinery itself. As the truck-mounted crane operates, components such as gears, pistons, and bearings wear down over time, releasing particles such as sand, gravel, and carbon deposit substances into the lubricating oil.
Removing mechanical impurities can be achieved through precipitation and filtration. Precipitation is a relatively simple process that relies on time and gravity. When the lubricating oil is left undisturbed for a period of time, the heavier mechanical impurities will settle to the bottom of the container. However, this method alone may not be sufficient to completely remove all impurities. Filtration is a more effective approach. There are various types of filters available, ranging from simple mesh filters to more advanced cartridge filters. These filters are designed to trap and remove mechanical impurities as the lubricating oil passes through them.
Another common impurity found in the lubricating oil of truck-mounted cranes is sediment. Sediment refers to organic and inorganic substances that are insoluble in the volume of oil products. It is one of the specification indicators for medium and heavy fuel oils. Excessive sediment content can have serious consequences. It can easily block filters, nozzles, and valves, which can disrupt the proper flow of lubricating oil and fuel. This can lead to reduced engine performance, increased wear on critical parts of the truck-mounted crane, and even potential breakdowns.
The measurement principle of sediment in oil involves placing a certain amount of oil in a porous container and continuously dripping a heat capacity agent. All components soluble in the solvent will pass through the filter and be discharged. What remains in the container is the sediment insoluble in the solvent. Removing sediment can be a challenging task. In some cases, specialized filtration systems or chemical treatments may be required to effectively remove sediment from the lubricating oil.
In addition to mechanical impurities and sediment, there may also be some impurities with relatively large particles in the lubricating oil, such as small sand and gravel particles. These can often be removed by filtration as well. For example, using a filter with a coarser mesh can trap these larger particles and prevent them from circulating in the lubricating system. There may also be some small twigs and thread-like substances from woven bags that can accidentally find their way into the lubricating oil. These can be removed using tools such as tweezers or by manually inspecting and cleaning the oil reservoir.
Although it is possible to remove impurities from the lubricating oil of truck-mounted cranes, it is important to note that this process requires time and effort. It can also cause delays in work, especially if the removal process needs to be carried out frequently. Therefore, it is crucial to take preventive measures during the normal use of truck-mounted cranes to minimize the entry of impurities into the lubricating oil.
For instance, proper maintenance and regular inspection of the engine and lubricating system can help identify potential sources of contamination early on. Sealing any leaks and ensuring that all connections are tight can prevent dust and debris from entering the system. When refilling lubricating oil, use clean containers and avoid pouring oil from dirty or contaminated sources. Additionally, keeping the truck-mounted crane clean and free from excessive dirt and debris on the exterior can also reduce the likelihood of contaminants entering the lubricating system.
Imagine a truck-mounted crane operating on a busy construction site. The driver regularly checks the lubricating oil for signs of impurities and takes preventive measures to keep the oil clean. By doing so, the driver not only extends the life of the engine and other components but also reduces the risk of breakdowns and costly repairs. On the other hand, if impurities are allowed to accumulate in the lubricating oil without proper attention, it can lead to decreased performance, increased fuel consumption, and potential damage to the crane.
In conclusion, while it is possible to remove impurities from the lubricating oil of truck-mounted cranes through methods such as precipitation, filtration, and manual removal, it is far better to take preventive measures to avoid the entry of impurities in the first place. By being vigilant in maintaining the cleanliness of the lubricating system and the truck-mounted crane as a whole, drivers can ensure the smooth and reliable operation of their equipment, reducing downtime and saving on maintenance costs.
