What are the common lubrication system malfunctions of vertical lathe machines?

I. Low Oil Pressure
This is one of the most common lubrication malfunctions, manifested as a low oil pressure gauge reading or a flashing warning light.

Main causes include:

Insufficient lubricating oil level, not replenished in time;
Decreased oil viscosity (e.g., due to high temperature or fuel contamination);
Insufficient oil supply pressure due to oil pump wear;
Clogged oil filter obstructing oil flow;
Severe internal leakage in the system, such as loose pipe joints or aging seals.

The oil level should be checked regularly, the filter cleaned, the oil pump performance tested, and the use of standard-compliant lubricating oil should be ensured.

II. High Oil Pressure
While less common than low oil pressure, it still poses a risk, potentially causing seal rupture or oil pipe bursting.

Common causes include:

Excessively high oil viscosity, especially prone to occur during cold starts;
Insufficient clearance between lubricated parts, increasing flow resistance;
Improper adjustment or jamming of the pressure relief valve, preventing proper pressure relief;
Severely clogged oil filter.

It is recommended to select lubricating oil of appropriate viscosity according to the ambient temperature and to regularly calibrate the pressure relief valve.

III. Insufficient or No Oil Drip at Lubrication Points
This phenomenon is often seen when no oil drips from the spindle box oil window, directly affecting the lubrication of bearings and gears.

Common causes include:

Insufficient oil in the oil tank or blocked oil lines;

Wearing of the oil pump leading to reduced oil output;

Pressure leakage in the oil inlet line, affecting pressure build-up.

Remedies include checking the oil level, clearing blocked oil lines, replacing the oil pump, or tightening pipe joints to ensure reliable sealing of the entire oil system.

IV. Lubricating Oil Deterioration
Lubricating oil deteriorates over time due to heat, oxidation, or contamination, manifesting as darkening, the appearance of emulsified foam (containing water), or the formation of a gel-like substance.

Deteriorated oil disrupts oil film formation, leading to lubrication failure, accelerated component wear, and even serious accidents such as bearing failure and seizure.

Main contributing factors include:

Cooling water seeping into the oil tank;

Poor piston ring sealing allowing combustion gases to enter the crankcase;

A clogged air filter allowing dust to enter the system;

Fuel diluting the lubricating oil.

Regularly sample and test the oil quality, change the lubricating oil on time, and ensure the ventilation system is functioning properly.

V. Abnormal Lubricating Oil Consumption

If a significant increase in lubricating oil consumption is observed, be alert to the possibility of "oil burning."

Possible causes include:

Poor sealing of the lubrication system, resulting in external leakage;
Overfilling of the lubricating oil, leading to excessive splashing loss during operation;
Overheating of the engine or spindle, accelerating oil evaporation;
Internal leakage into non-lubricated areas.

Promptly investigate the leak points and control the oil level within the indicated range.

VI. Lubrication System Contamination
Cutting fluid, metal shavings, or dust mixed with the lubricating oil can cause serious contamination, leading to oil passage blockage and pump wear.

It is recommended to install a filter in the system to prevent coolant backflow into the lubrication chamber; alternatively, consider using an independent lubrication and cooling system to improve reliability.