Metso Outotec has used its effective condition monitoring protocol and automated it using robust, well proven infrared hardware. Pinion condition monitoring provides precise information about the operating condition of the pinion and ring gear system by means of temperature measurements of the profile.
Prior to on-line monitoring equipment, an operator would have to regularly check the pinion temperature across its width using an infrared temperature gun or similar device, however, this process was labor-intensive, subject to operator influence and highly dependant on the frequency of readings. Pinion condition monitoring allows a proactive condition-based maintenance approach, which helps increase productivity, reduce downtime, and maximize assets useful life.
Pinion condition monitoring provides real operating information, which is a valuable resource when planning a maintenance program from repair work to successful proactive maintenance. It is a very efficient upgrade and is easy to integrate into the site DCS and mill control panel/PLC.
Unplanned equipment downtime can cause severe financial losses, but with the usage of infra-red pinion temperature monitoring, it is possible to minimize unplanned downtime. This ensures optimum and efficient management of maintenance and preparation to forecasted shutdown time. Emergency shutdowns can also be avoided with planned maintenance made possible by Metso Outotec pinion condition monitoring.
The online pinion condition monitoring allows the operator to monitor the temperature across the pinion profile. Depending on the width of the pinion two or three infrared sensors are located across the width of the machine. These sensors provide signals to the control system about the absolute temperature of the pinion at each device and from this, the control system calculates the temperature differentials between the devices.
The sensors are located conveniently for maintenance and they are contained in tubes to avoid splashing of lubricant, which would disrupt the monitoring.
The online infra-red monitor is an excellent indicator of various critical pinion related factors, including:
- State of alignment
- Sufficient lubrication
- Quality of lubrication
Pinion condition monitoring is available for any installed Metso Outotec mill equipped with a pinion and ring gear. Metso Outotec offers a complete package which includes new hatch to accommodate sensor mounting tubes, air purge pneumatic system complete with junction box and infra-red sensors complete with separate transmitter junction box.
