How to Select Lubricating Oil for Hydraulic Cone Crushers

One of the primary functions of equipment lubrication is to cool and reduce temperature, preventing components from overheating and sustaining damage. What is the normal operating oil temperature for a cone crusher?

Most equipment is equipped with an oil temperature alarm device, typically set at 60°C. However, since each piece of equipment operates under different conditions, the alarm threshold should be adjusted based on actual circumstances. During winter and summer, due to significant differences in ambient temperature, the alarm threshold should be adjusted accordingly. The setting method is as follows: during normal operation of the crusher, continuously monitor and record the return oil temperature over several days. Once the temperature stabilises, add 6°C to the stable temperature to determine the alarm threshold.

For cone crushers, the normal oil temperature should be maintained between 38-55°C based on the on-site environment and operating conditions. The optimal operating temperature range is between 38-46°C. If the temperature remains too high for an extended period, it may lead to equipment failures such as bearing failure or shaft breakage.

Regarding the selection of lubricant grades for different seasons, it is quite straightforward:

Winter: In cold weather with low temperatures, it is recommended to use relatively thin lubricants;

Summer: In hot weather with high temperatures, it is recommended to use relatively thicker lubricating oil.  

For general temperatures (spring and autumn), 40-grade mechanical oil can be used; in winter, 20-grade or 30-grade mechanical oil can be used; in summer, 50-grade mechanical oil can be used. In extremely cold regions, 10-grade or 15-grade mechanical oil can be used in winter to ensure normal equipment operation.

Why use different lubricants at different temperatures?

Because at low temperatures, thick lubricants become even thicker, making it difficult to apply them to the areas that need lubrication, while relatively thin lubricants can achieve the desired effect; At high temperatures, thick lubricating oil becomes relatively thinner, allowing it to adhere well to the parts of the equipment that require lubrication. Additionally, thick lubricating oil can dissipate more heat. If very thin lubricating oil is used, its adhesion effect on the lubrication system will be relatively poor.

In addition to different lubricant grades based on seasonal changes, the choice also depends on the components of the cone crusher, such as:

① When components have high load requirements and low speeds, lubricants with higher viscosity should be selected to facilitate the formation of a lubricant film, ensuring effective lubrication of the equipment;

② When the equipment operates at high speeds, a lubricant with low viscosity should be selected to avoid excessive operational loads caused by internal friction, which can lead to equipment overheating;

③ When there is a large gap between rotating components, a lubricant with a high viscosity should be selected, etc.

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