When properly employed, oil mist lubrication offers many benefits to the operation of electric motors with rolling element bearings. Cooler operating temperatures, increased reliability, and decreased maintenance issues are some of the achievable advantages associated with this system. However, there are also a host of concerns associated with its use. The costs of installing and operating a mist system must be determined. Motor internal components must be properly constructed in order to contain, drain, and perform in the presence of oil. Ecological and personnel exposure issues must be understood and planned for. Users considering the use of oil mist must conduct a thorough analysis that weighs the benefits against potential costs and hazards. Oil spills can result in costly environmental damage or interference with adjacent equipment. Additional machinery must be installed and maintained in order to support the oil mist method. Special storage considerations must also be taken with oil mist motors that have yet to be installed. This paper will explore the pros and cons of employing oil mist lubrication on rolling element bearing motors. Topics covered will include both motor design features and user installation and application issues. Advances in sealing and oil distribution technologies will also be discussed.
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