Technical Bulletin 6 – Lubrication: Spiral Belt and Track

One of the key factors for the smooth operation of spiral belts is to maintain low friction between the Spiral Belt and the Track Wear Strip.

The Track Wear Strips should be kept clean as a part of the regular weekly sanitation procedures.

There is a misconception that using mineral oil to lubricate the track wear strip and spiral belts is the best solution. The fact is, it’s not.

Mineral oil becomes gummy and tacky over time.  This is because at varying temperatures mineral oil changes its viscosity and oxidizes. So, if the viscosity of the mineral oil changes either due to oxidation or from changes in temperature, this increases the coefficient of friction.

We have documented over the last few years that the best lubricant to apply to the track system is pure silicone.

1. Only apply silicone on the outer or middle track to keep the coefficient of friction between the belt and the tracks LOW. Never lubricate the inner most track.
2. Silicone doesn’t change viscosity with temperature, and it doesn’t oxidize.  It stays the same in all ranges of temperature and environment.
3. Therefore, we strongly recommend discontinuing use of mineral oil and switching over to food grade silicone.

Track Glide Z-6000
This latest technology dramatically improves the belt performance and lowers tension in spiral systems by applying food grade silicone to the belt track at multiple points throughout the system at one time.

Track Glide Z-6000 significantly reduces friction and increases spiral belt life. This PLC controlled package reduces the potential for product contamination while decreasing maintenance cost and the labor needed for traditional brush lubrication.

• Reduces Residue Buildup
• Reduces Product Contamination
• Dramatically Reduces Friction
• Lowers Belt Tension
• Increases Belt Life
• Lowers Maintenance Cost
• Reduces Cleaning Time & Cost
• Uses Less Silicone Lubricant

Reservoir Labels
It is important to monitor the quantity of silicone that is being applied to the Track Glide Z-6000 applicators.

The quantity of silicone used should be very minimal and only applied when the Take-up Motor amp draw goes above a certain setpoint.

We have available stick-on labels that can be attached to the reservoir so that your maintenance personnel can see that the silicone is being applied.

Free Labels
If you would like a set of free stick-on labels, please email us at parts@ijwhite.com.

Traditional Reservoir

 

For more information, call our Technical Service Group at 631-293-2211 or email service@ijwhite.com.

Technical Bulletin 6 – Lubrication of the Spiral Belt and Track