GEI-56128H
11
F. Cleaning with Water and
Detergent
This method is very effective in cleaning windings
when used with a low-pressure steam jenny maximum
steam flow 30 psi and 90
°
C
.
CAUTION
:
To minimize possible damage
to varnish and insulation, a fairly neutral
non-conductive type of detergent such as
DuBois Flow should be used. A pint of detergent to
76 liters (20 gallons) of water is recommended
.
If a steam jenny is not available, the cleaning solution
may be applied with warm water by a spray gun. After
the cleaning operation, the windings should be rinsed
with water or low-pressure steam.
Dry the windings. Refer to the
Insulation Resistance
section in IV A. above, for instructions on how to
proceed
.
G. Anti-Friction
Bearings
and
Lubrication
The grease used as a lubricant in grease-lubricated
anti-friction bearings does not lose its lubricating
ability suddenly, but over a period of time. For a given
bearing construction and assembly, the lubricating
ability of a grease over time depends primarily on the
type of grease, the size of the bearing, the speed at
which the bearing rotates and the severity of operating
conditions. As a result, it is not possible to accurately
predetermine when new grease must be added. But,
good results can be obtained if the general
recommendations stated in this manual are followed.
The primary function of grease is to supply the
essential lubrication oil from the sponge-like reservoir
of its soap structure. Grease-lubricated anti-friction
bearings consume only a small amount of lubricant.
This lubricant must always be present to avoid rapid
wear and bearing failure. However, excessive or too
frequent lubrication may also damage the motor.
Ball bearing motors are adequately lubricated at the
factory. Motors with grease fittings should be
lubricated in accordance with these instructions to
provide maximum bearing life.
To obtain optimum results, Exxon Mobil Polyrex EM
(General Electric Specification D6A2C23) polyurea
grease should be used for lubrication, unless special
grease is specified on the motor’s nameplate.
See Section XI Lubrication Guide for greasing
frequency and recommended quantity of grease. If in
doubt, refer to GE Energy.
CAUTION:
Failure to use polyurea base
(NLGI Grade 2) or known compatible
grease could result in premature bearing
failure.
The procedure below must be followed for safe and
effective re-greasing. The recommended frequency
and quantity of grease is stated in tables 5 and 6.
WARNING
: L
ubrication maintenance
should be performed with the motor
stationary and disconnected from
the power source.
Extreme caution must be exercised to avoid
contact with rotating parts or electrical wiring if
the motor must be lubricated while running.
Failure to observe these precautions may result in
damage to the equipment, injury to personnel, or
both
.
1. Run the motor until warm.
2. Stop the motor and disconnect it from
the power supply.
3. Clean dirt and debris from around the
inlet lubrication fitting and the grease relief plug.
4. Remove the relief plug and clean the
opening and relief tube of hardened grease. This may
be accomplished with a twisted wire brush or sturdy
pipe cleaner.
5. Insert brush into the relief hole. While
the motor is still warm, add grease with a hand-
operated grease gun until fresh grease appears on the
end of the brush or until grease has been added up to
the amount listed in Table 6.
6. Leave the relief plug temporarily off.
Start the motor and run for 10 to 20 minutes to expel
any excess grease.
7. Stop the motor. Replace the relief plug.
8. Restart the motor and resume
operation.
CAUTION:
Failure to observe the
foregoing instructions for regreasing may
result in grease leakage and/or bearing
damage. To avoid damage to equipment, bearings
and grease must be kept free of dirt.
Since this method of greasing bearings tends to purge
the housing of used grease over a period of time,
removal of all grease should be required infrequently.
A GE Energy Authorized Service Shop can clean the
