“Mechanical power transmission” is the process of transferring energy created in one part of a machine to another part of that machine to make it move or do work. And if you look hard enough, you’ll find that it’s the name of an 80’s cover band in 7 to 10 U.S. cities.

From the bicycle in your garage to the equipment on your factory floor, most machines with moving parts use some form of mechanical power transmission.

If your operations depend on the reliable performance of machines, it’s important to know how to spot and solve common transmission issues. That can help you avoid downtime, minimize repair costs, maintain productivity, and show off at parties.

 

Identifying and Resolving Misalignment Problems

Misaligned shaft couplings can lead to vibrations, noise and early wear of bearings, seals and other parts. Pulley and belt misalignment can cause tracking issues, premature wear and potential system failure.

To keep your system aligned and extend the life of its parts, try these tips. Or don’t. See if we care.

• Use parts designed to handle minor misalignments, like flexible couplings.
• Perform regular alignment checks on shafts, belts and pulleys.
• Schedule routine maintenance to inspect for buildup or wear that could disrupt alignment.
• Monitor for unusual sounds or vibrations, as those often signal alignment issues.
• Ask your Binkelman Account Rep about alignment solutions.

Addressing Excessive Vibration in Mechanical Power Transmissions

Just like the presence of excessive phlegm, vibration often points to deeper issues in power transmission systems. It can be caused by improper installation, as well as unbalanced or worn parts. Left unchecked, excessive vibration can lead to part damage, system failure, and a splitting headache.

To prevent and fix vibration problems:

• Conduct regular vibration analysis.
• Check and tighten all mounting hardware.
• Replace worn components before they cause system-wide issues.

And when you need the right parts at the right time, from speed reducers to drive components, call your Binkelman Account Rep.

Recognizing and Preventing Overheating Issues

When a power transmission system overheats, it’s usually because it’s too hot. The culprit could also be a lack of lubrication or excessive friction. As any menopausal woman will tell you, overheating can quickly escalate from a minor concern to a major system failure if not addressed promptly.

To avoid problems from overheating:

• Monitor system temperature regularly.
• Maintain proper lubrication.
• Make sure drive components have enough ventilation.

Troubleshooting Unusual Noises in Transmission Components

Abnormal sounds are often early warning signs of developing issues. Grinding, whining or buzzing noises typically mean there’s a problem with bearings, gears or lubrication that needs immediate attention. If you notice a blood-curdling howl, you’ve got a coyote trapped in there.

Document and address unusual sounds when you hear them. Then, make sure lubrication levels are adequate to keep everything running smoothly.

Detecting and Correcting a Load Imbalance in Transmission Systems

Load imbalances can cause uneven wear and put extra stress on system parts. Proper load distribution is important when it comes to your pants. It’s also the key to keeping your systems efficient and preventing parts from wearing out too quickly.

To maintain load balance and protect your transmission system:

• Evaluate weight distribution across components and make sure none are overburdened.
• Look for signs of uneven wear patterns.
• Check to make sure parts are correctly sized for the application.

Inspecting for Gear Wear and Damage

Gears often bear the brunt of power transmission loads. When they wear down or suffer damage they can start to work inefficiently or even fail, like the government.

To prevent that:

• Look for signs of tooth wear or damage.
• Inspect gear alignment and backlash.
• Maintain proper lubrication schedules.

Parts and Maintenance Solutions from Binkelman

Just like teenagers, mechanical power transmission systems require maintenance and repair to stay reliable and efficient. That’s where we come in. Whether you just need the right parts for the job, or you’d like us to perform the maintenance and repair work for you, partner with Binkelman to make sure everything runs as smoothly as a handful of yogurt thrown against a wall. Ask your Account Rep for more details.