keeping them running
Page 59
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by Ron Cater A new system of automatic lubrication which has been undergoing field trials for some two years was shown to me recently, and on the face,of it seems to embody a remedy for the various snags which can occur. Known as ALF (automatic lubrication flow), the system is based on a single-plunger pump powered by an electric motor driving through a worm and pinion to a single lobe cam.
Oil feed is adjusted at up to 80 psi pressure into a ring main which contains blocks containing calibration units for operation at 0.50 and 1 cc per hour. Pressure is controlled by a pressure switch cutting the pump motor in and out as required. Feed pipes to the various units are led from the calibrators.
There is not much new about that, you might say, and, of course, you would be right. But closer examination of the droblems posed by auto-lubrication systems reveals this new unit has a lot to offer.
Being electrically driven, ALF can be mounted in the cab out of the way of 'weather and damage risks. It is equipped with a warning system against low oil-level, and in any case is almost 100 per cent selfpriming. In the event of it having to be primed there is only one simple bleeding-job to do—at the output line from the pump. Once this is done the rest of the system takes care of itself.
The system can be supplied with the number of lubrication points required and can be fitted in 8 to 20 hours dependent on that number. The cost of a 20to 30-point unit suitable for a standard four-wheeler is approximately £90 fitted and for a 70-point unit £175 fitted.
The manufacturer, Lubrication Equipment Ltd, of Acornfield Road, Kirkby Industrial Estate, Liverpool L33 7UA, will visit customers' premises to carry out fittings; alternatively, it has a number of fitting agents in the UK.
ALF could easily be comprehended even by the notso-bright 'employee; what is more by simply leaving the vehicle with the starting switch in the "on" position overnight one can ascertain whether the system is in fact working.
Further details are available from the manufacturer by asking for Mr Campion when telephoning Liverpool 051-546 4544.