Chain Drive Sand Dryer
Why we were called:
Rotary sand dryer at frac sand plant was experiencing short drive chain and sprocket service life.
What we saw:
Lubrication was done manually, and the dryer had to be shut down with LOTO each time. They were lubricating with a major lubricant manufacturer’s moly-fortified grease. Lubricant was not penetrating to the pins and bushings on the chain. Grease was capturing the silica and causing severe wear on the sprockets. New chains were being installed every 6-8 weeks and new sprockets replaced monthly.
How we helped:
We installed an automatic spray lubrication system that applied a light, fast-drying, open-chain lubricant. Lubricant was able to penetrate the chain and properly lubricate the pins and bushings. A slight overspray allowed for proper lubrication of the drive sprockets.
Initial coating of drive chain on sand dryer.
Directional spray nozzles on sand dryer drive chain
Properly lubricated chain on sand dryer. No lubricant dripping or slinging off. Unit is running smoother, quieter, and no chains or sprockets have been replaced in over six months.