Alemite Oil Mist

Application Manual

Oil Mist Application

Introduction
The Oil Mist principle was developed in the late 1930s by a
European bearing manufacturer. The problem that nurtured
this development was the inability to satisfactorily lubricate
high-speed spindle bearings on grinders and similar
equipment. The speeds of those bearings were too high for
grease lubrication, and the heat generated by fluid friction in
liquid oil necessitated the use of costly re-circulating
systems. Continuous thin-film lubrication with Oil Mist
provided a solution, and the purging of bearing housings that
accompanies this lubrication produced additional benefits.
Stewart-Warner Corporation purchased the rights to Oil Mist
in 1949. Since then, the Alemite Corporation has developed
a broad line of equipment and application techniques to
lubricate all kinds of machine elements, from the tiny, ultrahigh-speed parts of dentists drills to the huge gears and
bearings of steel rolling mills. With modern demands for
more and more complex machines running at higher and
higher speeds, and for greater reliability and economy, the
list of applications for Alemite Oil Mist Systems grows longer
and longer.

particles. This mist is then thrust against a baffle that collects

and drops larger particles back into the reservoir. The
lighter, airborne particles are then carried by the air stream
through the distribution system to the various points of
application.
The efficiency of an Oil Mist System is dependent upon
various designed lubrication fittings that serve as contact
points to the parts to be lubricated. These fittings serve two
functions. They maintain balanced pressure in the system
preventing over or under lubrication of a bearing. They
regulate the amount of mist through the fitting orifices into the
bearings being lubricated.

What it does
Oil Mist lubrication is an automatic, centralized system that
CONTINUOUSLY delivers fresh, clean oil to multiple, and
often widespread, machine elements. There are numerous
advantages to Oil Mist, in addition to the improvements in
safety, productivity, housekeeping, and lubrication that are
achieved by automatic centralized systems in general.
Continuous delivery, at rates closely approximating actual
bearing-surface needs, eliminates the overlubrication that is
necessary to insure adequate supply between periodic
applications. LUBRICANT CONSUMPTION can often be
reduced by as much as 80%.
In many cases, continuous lubricant delivery by Oil Mist
permits elimination of energy-wasting oil sumps. Reductions
in POWER consumption of more than 25% are common.
BEARING TEMPERATURES are often lowered dramatically,
not by actual cooling, but because most of the power
consumption reduction represents heat that is not generated
in churning excess lubricant.
Pressurization of housings, with continuous outward air flow,
extends MACHINE LIFE by helping to exclude dirt and
corrosive atmospheres. Oil Mist is even used to protect
equipment on standby and in storage.

How it does it
The heart of the system is the mist generator. Air from
normal factory air supply passes over a venturi inside the
generator, which accelerates the flow. This creates low
pressure and high velocity at the venturi discharge. As air
passes through the venturi it draws oil from the generator
reservoir into the high velocity air stream. The combination
of low pressure and high impact explodes the oil into tiny

How to apply it
BASIC STEPS TO DESIGN AN ALEMITE
OIL MIST SYSTEM
1. DESCRIBE each element to be lubricated and
CALCULATE its Oil Mist flow requirement in CUBIC FEET
PER MINUTE (CFM).
2. Select APPLICATION FITTING TYPES and determine
their PLACEMENT and VENTING provisions.
3. Select the DESIGN MANIFOLD PRESSURE (DMP).
4. Determine FITTINGS SIZES.
5. Select an appropriate Oil Mist GENERATOR.
6. ROUTE and SIZE air and mist distribution PIPING.
7. Select FITTNGS CONFIGURATIONS that will be most
convenient to install and connect to distribution system.
8. Select ACCESSORIES.
9. Plan ELECTRICAL CIRCUITRY.

Oil Mist Application

FITTING DISCHARGE DIRECTION

Details of basic steps General:

SPRAY and CONDENSING FITTINGS work most efficiently

when discharging downward. However, discharge may be in
any direction BETWEEN DOWNWARD AND HORIZONTAL.

For all Systems

SPRAY FITTINGS may also be installed to discharge

UPWARD, in which case the CALCULATED CFM used to
select fittings sizes should be DOUBLED.

1. The DESCRIPTIONS required to CALCULATE the mist

requirements of machine elements include type of element,
dimensions, and various details of installation and
operation. This information is used in simple formulas to
calculate cfm of mist required. The formulas are based on
the design standard oil/air ratio of 0.4 cubic inch (0.22
ounce) per hour per cfm. They assume that the elements
to be lubricated were properly selected for the intended
service and properly assembled and protected from
contamination. They also assume the use of an oil with the
proper misting and lubricating qualities for the intended
application. (FORMULAS and other considerations for
applying Oil Mist to SPECIFIC TYPES OF MACHINE
ELEMENTS are given in a later part of this manual:
PAGES 6-10.)

2.APPLICATION FITTING TYPES

FITTING SELECTIONS are primarily based on the types of
elements to be lubricated, but are often influenced by other
factors, such as machine configuration or speed. In
general, use SPRAY FITTINGS and SPRAY NOZZLES for
ROLLING MOTION elements, such as anti-friction
bearings, gears and chains. (SPRAY NOZZLES are just
multiples of the largest Alemite spray fitting.)
CONDENSING FITTINGS or SPRAY FITTINGS are used
for SLIDING MOTION elements, such as plain bearings,
slides, and ways. MIST FITTINGS are used only for rolling
element bearings operating in closed housings, under
particular types of loading, and above a minimum speed.

FITTINGS PLACEMENT
PLACE SPRAY FITTINGS to discharge close to the
lubricated elements, preferably less than one inch away.
REMOTE POSITIONING of spray fittings is permissible if
their outputs are ducted to and flow through the lubricated
elements because of relative positions of fittings and vents,
and if passages downstream from the fittings are horizontal
or sloped downward toward the elements.
TO SPRAY DIRECTLY on elements moving at speeds up
to about 1600 linear feet per minute, keep spacing between
spray fittings and moving surfaces under 1/20 inch per inch
water column manifold pressure. At higher speeds, install
spray fittings 1/8 to 1/4 inch from the moving surfaces and
use higher mist pressures-40 in. H20 above 2000 lfm and
up to 80 in. H20 at much higher speeds.
From CONDENSING FITTINGS the oil flows by gravity
directly to the grooves supplying the sliding surfaces. The
fitting location should be as close to the grooves as
possible.
MIST FITTINGS may be installed in any location, providing
the mist flow envelops or passes through the elements to
be lubricated.

Spray discharge should be approximately perpendicular to

the direction of motion of the sprayed surface.
MIST FITTINGS may be installed to discharge in any
direction.

VENTING
VENTING must be provided for the escape of carrier air from
closed housings.
MINIMUM VENT AREA is equal to twice the total flow area of
the application fittings supplying flow to that vent. Vent areas
of this size will produce housing back pressures equal to
about 20% of manifold pressure.
Wherever possible, relative POSITIONS of VENTS,
APPLICATION FITTINGS, and LUBRICATED ELEMENTS
should produce forced flow from application fittings to
lubricated surfaces.
VENTING can be by means of approximately located
DRILLED HOLES or, frequently, by existing ports in the
housing. LABYRINTH SEALS will usually provide adequate
venting, although a small one might have insufficient
clearances for this purpose, and require the addition of a
drilled hole. CONTACT SEALS can be notched to provide
venting, but this is not recommended because of the
likelihood that notching will not be provided when seals are
replaced.
VENT PORTS can often serve as OIL OVERFLOW OR
DRAIN ports. In an oil-sump application the vent can be
placed just above the normal sump oil level to provide an
overflow path for any excess oil delivered by the Oil Mist
system. Such vents should be located so that liquid oil will
not splash out through the port. For a dry-sump application
the vent can be placed at the bottom of the housing to drain
all liquids.
VENTS should generally be PROTECTED from outside
contaminants. Holes in the sides of housings should slope
downward to the outside. Vent ports in the tops of housings
should have shielded vent fittings installed.
3. DESIGN MANIFOLD PRESSURE (DMP) is the pressure
drop across the application fittings at which the fittings sizes
are selected. It is the intended output pressure of the Oil Mist
generator. The ALEMITE STANDARD DMP IS 20 INCHES
WATER COLUMN. Occasionally, other pressures are
recommended to better meet specific application
requirements. In general, lower DMPs permit closer oil
output control. Higher DMPs are used to produce higher
output velocities from spray type application fittings to
penetrate air barriers around high-surface speed elements
(over 2000 linear feet per minute). Also, spray and
condensing fittings operate more efficiently with higher
pressure drops across them.

Oil Mist Application

4. Determine APPLICATION FITTING SIZES from the chart
on PAGE 28.
A. In the TYPE column, locate the fitting type selected
in Step 2.
B. In the section for that fitting type, go to the right to
the column under the DMP selected in Step 3.
C. In the PRESSURE DROP column and type section
find the mist flow equal to or nearest to and higher
than the requirement calculated in Step 1.
D. On that flow line, go to the left to the second
column, headed NO., and read the DASH
NUMBER that represents the fitting size.
E. The columns at the right side of the chart give the
minimum vent size for each fitting size. Actually,
the sizes given are those of standard drill bits
closest to calculated sizes and rounded to nearest
thousandth.
AN EXCEPTION to the above method of determining fitting
type, size and placement is for elements in a closed
housing that are lubricated from an oil sump by dipping into
the oil or by oil rings, flingers, etc. Gear boxes and pump
bearing housings are examples of such equipment to which
Oil Mist is often applied to provide purging and to make up
oil losses from the sump. In the Hydrocarbon Processing
Industries, this is referred to as PURGE-MIST application.
Since, in a Purge-Mist application, the Oil Mist system does
not actually lubricate the machine elements, and, since
sump losses cannot be calculated, there are no
calculations to determine application fitting size. Alemite
recommends simply starting with a -8 SPRAY FITTING (or
-1 spray nozzle) for each housing, and changing sizes as
indicated by housing oil levels and/or overflow rates. A 1/8
inch diameter hole at the top of the sump oil level can act
as VENT and as overflow to prevent raising sump level.
If a CONSTANT LEVEL OILER is used to control sump oil
level, it must be modified by drilling an approximately 3/16
inch diameter hole in the side of the surge chamber about
1/4 inch above the operating oil level. This is to provide an
overflow for any excess oil delivered by the mist system.
To prevent depressing of the sump oil level, the housing
must be VENTED to an internal pressure no greater than
1/10 inch water column. An Alemite 385608 vent fitting is
recommended to accomplish this.

5. Oil Mist GENERATOR selection is based on flow capacity

and air heater requirements and, in some cases, on
desired reservoir refill interval.
The required MIST GENERATING CAPACITY is
determined by adding together the flow ratings, at design
manifold pressure, of all of the APPLICATION FITTINGS
that are to be supplied from the mist generator. Select a
generator (see PAGES 11-12 ) for which this total is within
the operating range, preferably near the center of that
range. DO NOT plan to operate a system outside the
specified flow limits of the mist generator, especially at the
low end. Flows less than the minimum specified for a
generator will not reliably draw an adequate supply of oil

from the reservoir to the mist generating head. If it is

necessary to use a mist generator with a higher minimum
flow rating than the total of the flow ratings of the
application fittings, then that total must be increased. This
can be accomplished by using the same fittings at a higher
design manifold pressure or by using fittings with higher
flow ratings. In most cases, the greater lubricant delivery
will not even be noticeable. However, if this approach is
objectionable, application fittings can be added to the
system, either by lubricating points not included in the
original plan, or by discharging spray or condensing fittings
into a vented receptacle.
Requirements for HEATERS are determined by referring to
the chart on PAGE 13. Use of the chart is explained on
that page. The lowest two curves indicate whether oil
(reservoir) and air heaters are REQUIRED. (Even though
they might not be required, these heaters are often used to
stabilize the oil/air ratio with widely varying ambient
temperatures.)
The two curves pertaining to application fittings indicate
limits necessitated by the tendency of oils to coat the bores
or passages of those fittings. As temperature falls, the
coating thickens. At FITTING TEMPERATURES above the
limits, the system maintains good balance and output by a
rise in manifold pressure, since, for a given input pressure,
the mist generator tends to act as a CONSTANT FLOW
device. However, at temperatures below the limits, the
restrictions become too great for the system to maintain
good distribution balance. Systems that are to operate
under such conditions should utilize mist generators with
Thermo-Aire. The temperature of the application fittings
can then usually be kept above the critical levels by
insulating the mist distribution system. Occasionally, it
might be necessary to provide some HEATING for the
FITTINGS.
If RESERVOIR REFILL INTERVAL is a matter of concern,
consult the chart on PAGE 14. The 0.6 cubic inches of oil
per hour per CFM of mist is the approximate maximum
oil/air ratio for Alemite Oil Mist generators operating without
heaters at normal plant ambient temperatures. Oil/air ratio
is a function of the setting of the oil flow adjustment screw
in the mist generating head, the type and viscosity of oil
used, as well as the air and oil temperatures. If all of these
were acting to maximize the oil/air ratio, the required refill
intervals could be as short as about one-half of those given
on the chart. With all factors combining to minimize oil/air
ratio, the intervals could be lengthened to five or six times
those shown. However, REMEMBER that changing oil/air
ratio also changes lubricant delivery. Reducing the ratio to
its minimum means reducing lubrication to about one-fourth
of the amount the system was designed to deliver, and
adds the danger of a complete loss of lubrication due to a
small drop in oil and/or air temperature, or to slightly
different misting characteristics of a new supply of oil. All
of which means: DO NOT plan to adjust system operating
conditions to achieve a desired refill interval. To the extent
possible, select a mist generator that will fit into the desired
schedule and, if necessary, adjust the schedule or consider
using an automatic refill system.

Oil Mist Application

6. PIPING refers to the systems used to supply air to the Oil

Mist generator and to distribute the Oil Mist from the
generator to the application fittings. It includes piping,
tubing, hose, and connectors.
In GENERAL, air and mist piping should be free of dirt,
scale, or other contaminants. Internal diameters should be
of sufficient size to avoid excessive pressure drop.
Materials should be compatible with internal fluids, and
resistant to external abuse, chemical attack and ambient
temperature.
For AIR PIPING, galvanized or copper pipe; copper,
stainless steel or anodized aluminum tubing; rubber hose
or synthetic tubing are recommended. The TABLE at the
TOP of the PAGE 15 gives pressure drops, at various air
flows, through 100 feet of pipe.
The plant main supply pipe must be larger than the branch
supplying air to the Oil Mist generator. The plant supply
pipe pressure, at the inlet to the branch, must be at least
equal to the sum of the generator regulated air pressure
and the pressure drop through the branch and the air
accessories, such as air solenoid valve, water separator,
and air pressure regulator. If the strainers in the water
separator and the air regulator become clogged, the
pressure drop will increase.
For MIST PIPING, any manifold material meeting the
GENERAL requirements above can be used. Black pipe
and plain steel tubing can be used if protected from
external corrosion by paint. The bore of black pipe should
be coated with preservative oil to prevent corrosion prior to
the introduction of Oil Mist. Mist piping should permit mist
flow with minimum wetting out of oil, and provide for
drainage of any oil that is deposited, without creating
obstructions to the mist flow. Since the mist system
operates at very low pressure, the use of pipe dope or
other thread sealants is not necessary and not
recommended. Improperly used, these sealants can
contaminate the mist piping. Flushing of the manifold is
recommended during installation to eliminate scale and dirt
which can plug the small bores of the application fittings.
MIST PIPING SIZES are selected primarily to limit mist
flow velocity. The TABLE at the BOTTOM of PAGE 15
shows the CFM that a given pipe, tube, or hose size
carries at various flow velocities. The MAXIMUM
VELOCITY of mist in the distribution system should be 24
fps (feet per second). Higher velocities will cause
excessive wetting out of oil from the mist. The GENERAL
RECOMMENDATION is to select distribution piping sizes
to limit flow velocity to 18-20 fps. This will keep wetting out
of oil to an acceptable minimum and will permit some
increase in system flow, if required, without exceeding the
maximum rate. For ROLLING MILL application, 15 fps
should be the maximum flow velocity. For systems
designed to operate at manifold pressures between 16
inches and 6 inches water column, use 12 fps as design
velocity. The use of OVERSIZE mist lines is
PERMISSIBLE but UNDERSIZE piping should NOT BE
USED.
In some installations, drain lines are provided to carry

reclassified oil away from housings. If such lines are also

acting as vents, they should follow the same criteria as
mist distribution piping, regarding flow velocity and
avoidance of traps.
In ROUTING MIST PIPING, the main consideration is
AVOIDANCE OF TRAPS - low spots in which oil could
collect. All parts of the distribution systems MUST DRAIN
by gravity. The main manifold should be sloped downward
toward the Oil Mist generator wherever possible. It is
especially important to slope the first part of the main
manifold toward the generator for a distance equal to 300
times the pipe ID, since most of the oil wetting-out occurs
within that distance. The TABLE at the TOP of PAGE 16
shows the RECOMMENDED SLOPE of manifold for proper
drainage back toward the generator.
Branch lines, if sloped toward the main manifold, should be
connected to the top or sides of the manifold, to avoid liquid
oil traps.
Where drainage provisions allow liquid oil and mist to flow
in the same direction, horizontal runs do not require any
slope. Horizontal runs which are not sloped should have
drainage points not farther apart than 300 times the
manifold ID. The drainage may be to points of lubrication,
or to a standpipe or sump having provision for periodic
dumping of collected oil.
Where oil traps are unavoidable, a 3/64 inch diameter hole
or a -3 spray fitting should be provided at the lowest point
of the trap to drain oil. If dripping is objectionable, run a
drain tube to a suitable receptable, vented with a 1/16 inch
diameter hole.

7. Select APPLICATION FITTINGS CONFIGURATIONS

that will be most convenient to install. Refer to types and
sizes previously determined (Step 4), and select from
fittings described on PAGES 17-21, and in Oil Mist
Catalog.
The complete fitting part number consists of a six-digit
number, designating type and style, followed by the dash
number, indicating size.

8. ACCESSORIES
The basic Oil Mist system components are:
a. An air line filter/water separator to assure a clean air
supply to the Oil Mist generator. (INCLUDED with some
models of Alemite Oil Mist generators, purchased
separately for others).
b. An air pressure regulator to control the atomizing air
pressure to the generator - the BASIC SYSTEM
ADJUSTMENT. (INCLUDED with some models of
Alemite Oil Mist generators, purchased separately for
others).
c. An Oil Mist generator which includes a venturi nozzle, oil
life tube, reservoir, and oil flow adjusting screw.
d. Mist distribution system to convey the Oil Mist to the
application fittings.

Oil Mist Application

e. Mist, spray or condensing application fittings to meter
and reclassify the Oil Mist at each lubrication point.
ACCESSORY Oil Mist system components include:
a. An air supply on-off valve. A solenoid valve is often used
and is INCLUDED with some models of Alemite Oil Mist
generators. The use of a solenoid valve permits remote
control or the interlocking of mist system operation with
that of the lubricated machine.
b. An oil heater to maintain the oil in the generator reservoir
at the proper viscosity for good mist generation
(INCLUDED with all generators supplied with air heater
and with some sales models of most other generators.)
c. An air heater (Thermo-Aire) to stabilize oil/air ratio, at
varying ambient temperature, or to mist heavy oils which
will not properly atomize at the prevailing ambient
temperature.
INCLUDED with some sales models of all generators for
which available. NOT AVAILABLE for 12 ounce or one
gallon generators).
d. An oil level switch to signal low oil level in the reservoir
and/or to control automatic reservoir refill.
e. A mist manifold pressure gauge (manometer) for visual
indication of manifold pressure. Although not necessary
for system operation, it is STRONGLY RECOMMENDED
that a mist pressure gauge be included in every Oil Mist

system. It simplifies and improves the accuracy of

system adjustment and provides valuable information on
system operation, especially during start-up and if trouble
shooting is required.
f. A mist manifold pressure switch to signal high or low
manifold pressure. SHOULD BE INCLUDED IN
THERMO-AIRE SYSTEMS, wired to shut off air heater
under alarm conditions, to protect heater element. See
circuit diagrams in section 9.
g. An Oil Mist detection unit (Mist Monitor) to signal high
or low density of oil particles in the mist. With reservoir
oil level, manifold pressure, and air temperature all within
normal limits, it is still possible that a mist generator will
not produce mist, due to improper oil in the reservoir or
to blockage of oil flow to the mist head. The Mist Monitor
continuously monitors mist density, photoelectrically, and
signals any serious deviation from the calibration level.

9. Some suggested ELECTRICAL CIRCUITS are shown on

PAGES 23-26. Terminal or wire numbers for electrical
components are given on PAGE 22. Of course, the user
may use these components as desired, within their ratings.
NOTE that circuits involving Thermo-Aire (air heaters)interlock
the heater with the mist pressure switch. This is to protect the
heater by preventing application of power without air flow
through the unit.

Oil Mist Application

Applying Oil Mist to specific

types of machine elements
ROLLING ELEMENT BEARINGS

location is used advantageously on single row, moderate

service, ball bearings on shafts under four inches in diameter,
operating over 200 lfm. Bearings in this category, mounted in
the wall of a machine housing containing a mist atmosphere,
can be mist lubricated if BOTH SIDES of the bearing are freely
exposed to the mist. A drilled hole or undercut with a minimum
area of 0.049 square inches in the outer race support is used to
expose the outboard side of a bearing in a blind wall mounting
to the mist in the housing. The windage created by the rotating
parts of the bearing assembly will create sufficient flow of mist
through the rolling elements. The cfm requirement for each
such bearing should be included in the calculated mist input for
the housing.
For radially mounted bearings designed to carry THRUST
LOADS (Heavy Service), such as angular contact ball or
tapered roller bearings, spray fittings and vents should be
located so the flow through the bearing is opposite to the
direction of thrust from the shaft. This is not necessary if an oil
sump or bath is maintained.

MODERATE SERVICE
CFM = 2x1/40=0.05

CFM CALCULATIONS
Moderate Service

cfm=DR/40

Heavy Service

cfm=DR/20

Rolling Mill Service

cfm=DR/14

Where

D = Shaft diameter in inches

R = Number of rows of rolling elements

The HEAVY SERVICE formula is used for:

All constantly thrust loaded bearings.
All preloaded bearings
All bearings on shafts transmitting more than 40 horsepower.
All bearings subjected to high inertial loads, either by
frequent hard starting and stopping or by unbalanced shaft
designs.
The ROLLING MILL SERVICE formula is used for work roll and
backup roll bearings in ferrous and non-ferrous rolling mills.
MODERATE SERVICE is any not included in the other service
definitions.
SPRAY FITTINGS OR NOZZLES are preferred for rolling
element bearings.
MIST FITTINGS are used for moderate service rolling element
bearings in closed housings where it is not practical to place a
spray fitting close to each bearing. Because most of the output
of a mist fitting will remain air-borne until carried into the
turbulent region of a bearing, mist fittings can be installed
remotely from the bearings they are to lubricate. Several
bearings in a housing can be served by one mist fitting. To
utilize the output from mist fittings, bearings must be operating
at speeds no lower than 200 linear feet per minute and
preferably above 1000 lfm, at the mean diameter of the bearing.
VENTS must be positioned and sized to proportion positive mist
flow through each bearing.
AN EXCEPTION to the forced flow principle of inlet and vent

TAPERED ROLLER BEARINGS, operating with light preloads,

are best lubricated from the small end of the rollers. On
HEAVILY PRELOADED tapered roller bearings, two spray
fittings per row can be used to advantage, especially in critical
applications such as precision machine tool spindles. For these
installations use the HEAVY SERVICE or even the MILL
SERVICE formula. On the upstream side of the bearing use a
spray fitting sized to deliver about one-third of the calculated
requirement, and on the vent side use a spray fitting that will
deliver about two-thirds of the calculated value. On the vent
side, place the fitting as close as possible to the bearing and try
to direct its output toward the bearing and away from the vent.
VENTS and APPLICATION FITTINGS should generally be
located so the calculated cfm for each row of rolling elements in
HEAVY SERVICE flows through that row before exhausting
through the vent. For bearings in MODERATE SERVICE, such
forced flow can be through two consecutive rows, if necessary.
With the EXCEPTION noted previously, forced flow through
bearings is necessary when using mist fittings. In direct spray
applications, with spray fittings discharging close to lubricated
elements, the vents and fittings need not be on opposite sides
of the bearings.
OIL SUMPS are recommended for ALL HEAVY SERVICE
BEARINGS and for all moderate service bearings mounted on
shafts four inches or larger in diameter. A DEPTH of oil
sufficient to cover the inside diameter of the bearing cup is
recommended for tapered roller bearings. For other bearing
types the depth of oil should be to the mid-height of the rolling
element at the bottom of the bearing. Vent locations can be
used to maintain the proper oil level. For high speed bearings,
vents used to control the sump level should be located so the
churning effect of the rolling elements does not throw sump oil
out of the vent ports.
Bearing housings with DOUBLE LIP SEALS require spray inlets
and vents located to maintain an oil sump in the area between
the contacting lips. The CFM seal requirement is equal to a
row of elements on the same shaft in moderate service
(cfm=D/40).
Means of sighting sump oil level are recommended.

Oil Mist Application

Oil Mist Application

PLAIN BEARINGS

CFM CALCULATIONS
Moderate Service

cfm=LD/100

Heavy Service

cfm=LD/60

Heavy Service, High Loss

cfm=LD/30

Where D = Shaft Diameter in Inches

L = Sleeve Length in Inches
MODERATE SERVICE BEARINGS are:
Rotating bearings on horizontal shafts where the load zone
is always in the lower half of the bearing.
Bearings mounted in any position where the oil is retained
in the bearing by contact type seals.
Bearings with porous bushings or synthetic frictionless
sleeves.
HEAVY SERVICE BEARINGS are:
Oscillating bearings on horizontal shafts where the load
zone is always in the lower half of the bearing.
Unsealed bearings subjected to shock loading where the
load zone constantly shifts, but boundary lubrication is
permissible, such as king pins and spring pins on trucks.
Small rotating bearings not mounted on horizontal shafts.
HEAVY SERVICE, HIGH OIL LOSS BEARINGS are:
Rotating bearings or bearings oscillating rapidly where the
load zone shifts more than 180, such as crankshaft and
crankarm bearings. Applications where these bearings
operate over 600 lfm should be referred to the factory.
Large bearings without seals that are not mounted on
horizontal shafts.
CONDENSING OR SPRAY FITTINGS are recommended for
plain bearings with 360 sleeves. SPRAY FITTINGS are
recommended for half-sleeve bearings.
On 360 bearings, fittings are installed so their outlets are
above the bearing housing. On HALF BEARINGS, spray
fittings are installed to spray on the shaft near its line of entry
into the bearing.
The following general RULES FOR GROOVE LOCATIONS
in Oil Mist lubrication bearings are consistent with accepted
grooving practice for oil lubricated plain bearings, regardless
of the method of oil application:
A. Grooves should be located so that 90% of the surface
area of the ungrooved surface (usually the shaft) passes
over one oil groove during each cycle of motion. This
rule is best represented by a longitudinal groove
extending 90% of the sleeve length in a rotating bearing.
Following this rule, OSCILLATING BEARINGS may
require several longitudinal grooves. In small oscillating
bearings these primary grooves can be connected by a

circumferential secondary groove with a single

application fitting supplying all grooves. On large
bearings of this type, a fitting should be used for each
longitudinal groove.
B. Groove volumes should be kept to a minimum. With a
constant source of lubricant input, large volume grooves,
acting as reservoirs, are not required. Large volume
grooves can be a disadvantage on machine start-up, if
oil has completely drained from the groove volume
during a shutdown period. For this reason, application
fittings should not be spaced further than FIVE INCHES
apart in bearings over five inches long.
C. All groove edges or housing parting line edges facing
the oncoming sliding surface should be rounded or
chamfered to prevent scraping the oil from the shaft.
D. Grooves should be in the unloaded zone of
hydrodynamically lubricated bearings. On large
bearings of this type the groove should be close to the
area where the shaft enters the load zone.
The RULES FOR VENTING plain bearings are:
A. Grooves are also used to vent plain bearings. For this
purpose, longitudinal grooves should extend to within
1/4 from the end of the sleeve in horizontal bearings.
Circumferential grooves in vertical sleeves should be in
the upper third of the sleeve and a longitudinal groove
extending upward from this groove to the END of the
sleeve is preferred for venting and should be opposite
the application fitting inlet.
B. Bearings with very close tolerances or with contact seals
require a vent passage connected to the top of the
internal grooving. The inlet and vent passages may be
combined.

SLIDES AND WAYS

CFM CALCULATIONS
Application fittings installed in SLIDE:
cfm=A/800
Application fittings discharging ONTO WAYS:
cfm=A/400
Where A = TOTAL contact area in square inches
Generally, CONDENSING FITTINGS are used to deliver
lubricant through holes in slides. SPRAY FITTINGS are
used to supply oil to ways.
For SLIDES, provide at least one application fitting for each
six inches of slide width and four inches of slide length, or
fractions thereof. Thus, a slide seven inches wide by nine
inches long should carry six application fittings - two across
by three lengthwise. Fittings should discharge into
TRANSVERSE GROOVES extending 90% of slide width.
Grooves should be VENTED or inlets and vents may be
combined as illustrated for plain bearings.
For WAYS, provide at least one application fitting for each six
inches of contact width.
Where MULTIPLE FITTINGS are used, DIVIDE the
calculated CFM EQUALLY among them.

Oil Mist Application

Oil Mist Application

10
GEARS

CHAINS

CFM CALCULATIONS

CFM CALCULATIONS

Spur, bevel, helical, etc:

unidirectional
cfm = F(D1 + D2 + D3 +...)/160
reversing
cfm = F(D1 + D2 + D3 +...)/110
Worm gears, unidirectional cfm = F(2D1 + D2)/160
reversing
cfm = F(2D1 + D2)/110

PDR
ROLLER Chain, power transmitting cfm =
320

Where

F = Gear face width, in inches

D1 = Pitch diameter of small gear or worm, in inches
D2 = Pitch diameter of large gear, in inches
D3, etc = Pitch diameters of additional gears, in
inches

If D2, D3 or any gear is LARGER THAN 2D, (except worm), in

place of that larger gear USE 2D1.
SPRAY FITTINGS OR NOZZLES are used to spray directly
on gears.
Provide a spray fitting for each TWO INCHES OF FACE
WIDTH or fraction thereof.
Where MULTIPLE FITTINGS are used across a WIDE GEAR
FACE, DIVIDE the calculated CFM EQUALLY among them.
For moderately loaded GEAR TRAINS, sprays directed at
every second or third gear in the train will generally suffice.
Using the formula, calculate the total cfm requirement for the
train. Proportion this by eyeball estimate to the lubrication
points selected. Use more or larger fittings on larger gears or
on those with more mesh points.
For HEAVILY LOADED GEAR TRAINS, provide sprays for
all mesh point, estimating proportioning to determine number
or sizes of fittings.
For UNIDIRECTIONAL operation, direct spray at load side of
gear teeth.
For REVERSING service, direct spray toward gear axis:

(100S )

S 3
cfm = WD
100
600
Where P = Pitch of chain or sprocket, in inches
D = Pitch diameter of small sprocket, in inches
R = Number of rows of chain rollers
W = Width of chain in inches
S = rpm of small sprocket
CONVEYOR Chain cfm = 3DW + 0.1LW
500
Where D = Diameter of drive sprocket, in inches
W = Width of chain, in inches
L = Length of chain, in inches
SILENT Chain

( )

SPRAY FITTINGS are used for chain lubrication.

For ROLLER and CONVEYOR chains, direct spray onto
edges of link plates. For single strand roller and for conveyor
chains, apply about one-half of the calculated cfm to each
row of link plates.
For MULTIPLE STRAND roller chain, divide the calculated
cfm by the number of rows of rollers to find the spray
FITTING SIZE for the inner rows of link plates. For the two
outer rows of link plates, divide calculated cfm by two times
the number of roller rows.
For SILENT chain, provide one spray fitting for each 1/2 inch
of width, starting 1/4 inch from outside edges. To SIZE
fittings, divide calculated cfm by twice the chain width.
For best results, position fittings to spray on the INSIDE OF
THE SLACK STRAND.
If spraying the SLACK STRAND, direct the spray slightly
AGAINST the chain motion.
If spraying the WORKING STRAND, point the spray slightly
in the direction of chain motion.

Oil Mist Application

MIST GENERATOR FLOW CHARACTERISTICS

11

12

Oil Mist Application

MIST GENERATOR FLOW CHARACTERISTICS

Oil Mist Application

13

SELECTION OF Oil Mist GENERATING COMPONENTS

TO OBTAIN OIL/AIR RATIO OF 0.4 CUBIC INCH OIL/HOUR/CFM AIR
The minimum ambient temperature and the oil viscosity for any intended application are used to locate a point on this chart.
The location of this point provides information used to determine the Oil Mist equipment requirements for the intended
application.
CERTAIN OIL ADDITIVES CAN AFFECT THE OIL/AIR RATIO, OR STOP THE GENERATION OF MIST.

OIL VISCOSITY RATING VS. ESTIMATED MINIMUM AMBIENT TEMPERATURE

14

Oil Mist Application

RESERVOIR REFILL INTERVAL

The chart relates mist flow and intervals at which various Alemite Oil Mist reservoirs will require refilling.
Curves are based on a mist density of 0.6 cubic inches of oil per hour per cfm of mist.
Curves are labeled with nominal reservoir capacities, but are based on actual usable cubic inches from FULL mark to nozzle
starvation.
Ranges covered by curves are those available with Alemite standard reservoir and mist head combinations.

Oil Mist Application

15

AIR PIPING
PRESSURE DROP PER 100 FEET OF PIPE-psi

AIR FLOW
@100psi
@75F
(cfm)

1/8
.269I.D.

16

15

13

20

23

35

14

45

23

33

PIPE SIZE

1/4
.364I.D.

3/8
.493 I.D.

100

1/2
.622 I.D.

3/4
.824 I.D.

MIST PIPE SIZING

MIST FLOWSCFM
SIZE

ID-in

1/4 tube
3/8 tube
1/2 tube

0.194
0.305
0.444

1/8 pipe
1/4 pipe
3/8 pipe

AREA-in2

@12fps

@15 fps

@18fps

@20fps

@24fps

0.030
0.073
0.155

0.148
0.365
0.774

0.185
0.457
0.968

0.222
0.548
1.161

0.246
0.609
1.290

0.296
0.731
1.548

0.269
0.364
0.493

0.057
0.104
0.191

0.284
0.520
0.954

0.355
0.650
1.193

0.426
0.780
1.432

0.474
0.867
1.591

0.568
1.041
1.909

1/2 pipe
3/4 pipe
1 pipe

0.622
0.824
1.049

0.304
0.533
0.864

1.519
2.666
4.321

1.899
3.333
5.402

2.279
3.999
6.481

2.532
4.444
7.202

3.039
5.333
8.643

11/4 pipe
11/2 pipe
2 pipe

1.380
1.610
2.067

1.496
2.036
3.356

7.479
10.179
16.778

9.349
12.725
20.974

11.218
15.267
25.165

12.464
16.965
27.963

14.957
20.358
33.556

21/2 pipe
3 pipe

2.469
3.068

4.788
7.393

23.939
36.963

29.925
46.207

35.905
55.440

39.898
61.601

47.878
73.927

3/16 hose
1/4 hose
3/8 hose

0.188
0.250
0.375

0.028
0.049
0.110

0.138
0.245
0.552

0.174
0.307
0.690

0.207
0.368
0.828

0.231
0.409
0.920

0.276
0.491
1.104

1/2 hose
3/4 hose
1 hose

0.500
0.750
1.000

0.196
0.442
0.785

0.982
2.209
3.927

1.227
2.761
4.909

1.473
3.313
5.890

1.636
3.682
6.545

1.964
4.418
7.854

11/4hose
11/2hose

1.250
1.500

1.227
1.767

6.136
8.836

7.670
11.045

9.204
13.254

10.227
14.726

12.272
17.672

Oil Mist Application

16

SLOPE OF MIST MANIFOLD TOWARD GENERATOR

OIL VISCOSITY
(SSU@100F)

MINIMUM AMBIENT OR MANIFOLD TEMPERATURE

0F
32F
50F
75F
100F

100

5.3

3.7

3.0

2.4

2.1

180

8.8

5.4

4.1

3.0

2.5

300

10.5

6.1

4.6

3.7

2.9

500

12.2

7.2

5.5

4.4

3.5

800

18.0

8.5

6.5

5.1

4.0

1500

11.0

8.8

6.1

4.9

2500

15.0

10.4

7.1

5.4

5000

14.4

9.0

6.

*PERCENT SLOPE OF MANIFOLD

*2% slope equals 2 drop every 100 of manifold

Table Notes:
1. Table is for manifold where condensed oil flow is opposite the mist flow.
2. Table is for installations in continuous operation. For systems operating one or two shifts daily, divide slope in Table by 2.

Oil Mist Application

17

MIST APPLICATION FITTINGS

Mist fittings are metering orifices which deliver mist, with minimum condensation, to machine elements.
The mist must be converted to liquid oil by the machine element.
The fittings are made of brass. Color - black.
The air flow graph shows average output.

INLET 1/8 NPTF (FEMALE)

OUTLET
1/8 PTF* (m)
380791-2
380791-4
380791-6

INLET 1/4 OD
TUBE FTG

ORIFICE

OUTLET
1/4 NPTF (m)

OUTLET
1/8 PTF* (m)

DIAMETER

LENGTH

FLOW
AREA

381303-4
381303-6
381303-10
381303-16

381290-2
381290-4
381290-6
381290-10
381290-16

.032
.045
.055
.078
.089

.44
.44
.44
.44
.44

.00078
.00159
.00237
.00484
.00622

*SAE Special Short.

PREFERRED ARRANGEMENT.
INLET AND OUTLET CAN BE
INTERCHANGED
WHERE NECESSARY.
PART NO. INCLUDES:
381289-2,-4,-6,-10, OR -16 FTG
328301-4 COMP. NUT
328302-4 COMP. SLEEVE

18

Oil Mist Application

CONDENSING APPLICATION FITTINGS

Condensing fittings are metering elements which convert mist to liquid oil within the fitting. The condensed oil flows by gravity to
the machine element.
The fittings are made of brass. Color - silver.
The air flow graph shows average output.

INLET 1/8 NPTF (f)

OUTLET 1/8 PTF * (m)
381281-06
381281-1
381281-2
381281-3
381281-4
381281-5

INLET 1/4 OD TUBE FTG

OUTLET 1/8 PTF *(m)
381282-1
381282-2
381282-3
381282-4
381282-5

ORIFICE (BAFFLED)
SIZE
LENGTH
FLOW AREA
SLOT .014 R
.38
.0003
SLOT .020 R
.38
.0006
2 SLOTS .020 R
.38
.0012
3 SLOTS .020 R
.38
.0018
5 SLOTS .020 R
.38
.0030
6 SLOTS .020 R
.38
.0036

*SAE Special Short.

PREFERRED ARRANGEMENT.
INLET AND OUTLET CAN BE INTERCHANGED WHERE NECESSARY.

Oil Mist Application

19

SPRAY APPLICATION FITTINGS

Spray fittings are metering orifices which convert a high percentage of mist to an oil spray.
The fittings are made of brass. Color - olive drab.
The air flow graph shows average output.

INLET 1/8 NPTF

OUTLET 1/8 NPTF
381283-1
381283-2
381283-3
381283-5
381283-8

INLET 1/4 OD TUBE FTG

OUTLET 1/8 NPTF
381288-1
381288-2
381288-3
381288-5
381288-8

DIAMETER
.024
.035
.042
.055
.067

ORIFICE
LENGTH
1.38
1.38
1.38
1.38
1.38

FLOW AREA
.000452
.000962
.00138
.00237
.00352

Oil Mist Application

20

SPRAY NOZZLE APPLICATION FITTINGS

Spray nozzles contain one or more metering orifices which convert a high percentage of mist to an oil spray. The capacity of
each metering orifice is nearly equal to that of one -8 spray fitting.
The nozzles are made of brass.

NO. OF

TOTAL

ONE END THREADED

BOTH ENDS THREADED ORIFICES FLOW

1/2 NPTF (m)

1/4 NPTF (m) 1/2 PTF*(m)

3/4 NPTF (m)

.067 DIA.
1.38 LG.

AREA
SQ. IN.

326370-1

383588-1

384280-1

.00352

326370-2

383588-2

384280-2

.00704

326370-3

383588-3

384280-3

.01056

326370-4

383588-4

384280-4

.01408

326370-5

383588-5

384280-5

.01760

326370-6

383588-6

384280-6

.02112

326370-7

383588-7

384280-7

.02464

326370-8

384280-8

.02816

326370-9

384280-9

.03168

384280-10

10

.03520

383617-11

11

.03872

383617-12

12

.04224

383617-13

13

.04576

383617-14

14

.04928

32670-10

*SAE Short

383617-10

Oil Mist Application

21

SPRAY NOZZLE APPLICATION FITTINGS

(continued)
Dash number for each curve indicates number of .067 diameter orifices in nozzle and is used as suffix of nozzle part number.
The flow through one .067 diameter orifice is .56 cfm at a pressure drop of 60 inches water column, and .68 cfm at 80 inches
water column.
The nozzle air flow graph shows average output.

Oil Mist Application

22

BASIC OIL MIST GENERATOR ELECTRICAL INTERCONNECTION DIAGRAM

TABLE OF COMPONENTS
CODE

COMPONENT

SOL A

SOLENOID AIR SHUT-OFF VALVE

TS-2

OIL HEATER THERMOSTAT

OH

OIL HEATER

HPS

MIST HIGH PRESSURE SWITCH (NO.2)

LPS

MIST LOW PRESSURE SWITCH (NO.1)

LLS

LOW LEVEL SWITCH

TS-1

AIR HEATER THERMOSTAT

TS-3

LOW AIR TEMPERATURE SWITCH

AH

AIR HEATER

**CAP.

CAPACITOR

ON THERMO-AIRE GENERATORS ONLY

AUTOMATIC REFILL KIT

RSS

REFILL AND SIGNAL SWITCH

SOL R

SOLENOID OIL REFILL VALVE

NOTES:
1. This is the interconnection diagram for Oil Mist generators, but most models do not incorporate all the electrical
components.
2. Terminal boxes having the same terminal strip numbering are recommended for Modular Design Generators.
3. These terminal numbers are used in the recommended elementary diagrams (in this section) for all Oil Mist Units, even
though most models do not incorporate all the electrical components.
4. The recommended elementary diagrams in this section are intended to be representative of the majority of desired
hookups. Where feasible, likely alternatives are shown.
5. Some circuits will require removal of jumpers 2-5, 5-6 and/or 9-10.
**High volume Thermo-Aire Generators only.

Oil Mist Application

23

RECOMMENDED ELEMENTARY WIRING DIAGRAMS FOR OIL MIST SYSTEMS

WITHOUT OIL HEATERS
These wiring diagrams are recommended for Oil Mist systems integral with a single machine. CR relay (5) can be used to
interlock machine start and stop with Oil Mist system operation. DS-1(1) can be omitted if machine is equipped with a power
disconnect.

Sequence of Operation (upper diagram):

1. Manually closing DS-1 (1) energizes the air solenoid (4), allowing air to flow to the Oil Mist generator. Closing DS-1 also
energizes the red light (6) and CR(5); therefore, CR contact (2) is open, and machine cannot be started.
2. When sufficient manifold pressure is attained, LPS (5) opens, de-energizing CR and the red light. The machine can now be
started by closing PB-1.

Function of CR Contacts:
1. With CR contacts in location #1, machine cannot be started without Oil Mist system, and will shut down when there is low
oil level, low manifold pressure, or high manifold pressure.
2. With CR contacts in location #2, machine cannot be started without Oil Mist System, but once machine is started, failure of
the Oil Mist system will energize red light, but will not shut down the machine.

Sequence of Operation (lower diagram):

1. Manually closing DS-1(1) starts the Oil Mist system simultaneously with the machine, and failure of the Oil Mist System will
only energize the red light (5).

24

Oil Mist Application

RECOMMENDED ELEMENTARY WIRING DIAGRAMS FOR OIL MIST SYSTEMS WITH

OIL HEATERS AND SIGNALS
These wiring diagrams are recommended for Oil Mist systems integral with a single machine. CR relay (3) can be used to
interlock machine start-and-stop with Oil Mist system operation.
An alternate relay CR-2(7) can be wired in series with DS-3, and CR omitted.
Where DS-1(1) is operated just prior to machine start, the oil heater should be wired upstream of DS-1. DS-1 can be omitted
if machine is equipped with a power disconnect.

Sequence of Operation (upper diagram):

1. Manually closing DS-1(1) energizes the oil heater (2) and the red light(5) indicating power on.
2. Manually closing DS-2(8) energizes the air solenoid, allowing air to flow to Oil Mist generator.
3. When sufficient manifold pressure is attained, LPS(4) de-energizes the green light (4) and optional relay coil CR(3).
4. If CR is used, machine can now be started.
Also, DS-3(6) may now be closed to lock in howler H for annunciation of system fault.

Sequence of Operation (lower diagram):

1. In diagram below, WS Light Signal unit 380745 is used in place of the individual red and green lights above.
In case of malfunction, the red light and howler H, if used, will be energized.
Sequence of operation is the same, except there is no indication when DS-3 can be closed without energizing the red light
and howler.
Also, there is no indication of power-on when DS-1 is closed to energize the oil heater; instead, the green light indicates the
air solenoid is energized.

Oil Mist Application

25

RECOMMENDED ELEMENTARY WIRING DIAGRAMS FOR OIL MIST SYSTEMS WITH

AIR AND OIL HEATERS AND SIGNALS
These wiring diagrams are recommended where Oil Mist is lubricating a machine segment of a multiple-machine operation.
Malfunction of the Oil Mist system energizes the warning signals, but does not stop the machine.
WS alarm signal units are interchangeable in either circuit arrangement.
Upper circuit shows air heater on same power input as control circuits.
Lower circuit shows air heater on separate power input.
Upper circuit can include 2CR relay (4) for interlocking machine start with proper Oil Mist system operation.
When 2CR is used, 2CR contacts in start circuit are normally open.
Upper circuit, as shown, is for MODULAR SERIES Thermo-Aire generators. For HIGH VOLUME units (2000 watt air heater),
replace TS-1 and AH(3)with Heater Control Relay (HCR) coil, and connect TS-1, AH and HCR contacts as shown in lower diagram.

Sequence of Operation (upper diagram):

1. Power across the input lines energizes the oil heater (1).
2. Manually closing DS-1(2) starts the Oil Mist system.
3. When Oil Mist system is stabilized, DS-2(6,8) is closed to lock in WS alarm, (Light Signal 380745), H Howler 380732, and
optional 2CR relay.

Sequence of Operation (lower diagram):

WS light signals (lamp 60 watts maximum) are shown in place of the alarm circuit shown above, and DS-2 is not required.
2CR relay cannot be used in circuit below, unless the WS alarm system shown in upper diagram is used.
1. Manually closing DS-1(1,5) starts the Oil Mist system.
2. When the Oil Mist system is stabilized, all warning lights are de-energized.

26

Oil Mist Application

RECOMMENDED WIRING DIAGRAMS FOR OIL MIST SYSTEMS WITH OIL AND AIR
HEATERS AND INDIVIDUAL SIGNALS
This wiring diagram is recommended where Oil Mist is lubricating a machine segment of a multiple-machine operation, and
neon pilot lights are used (with master warning signals) to indicate the cause of malfunction.
Malfunction of the Oil Mist system energizes the warning signals, but does not stop the machine. The circuit shows air heater
on a separate power input.
The circuit can include 4 CR relay (15) for interlocking machine start with proper Oil Mist system operation. When 4 CR is
used, 4 CR contacts in the start circuit are normally open.

Oil Mist Application

TYPICAL OIL-MIST SYSTEM PIPING SCHEMATIC

27

28

Oil Mist Application

NOTES ON USE OF APPLICATION FITTING SELECTION CHART

1. Basic Design Manifold Pressure is 20 inches water column.
2. Minimum recommended vent area equals twice the application fitting orifice area.
3. Minimum recommended manifold pressure for mist fittings is 2 H20.
4. Minimum recommended manifold pressure for spray fittings is 8 H20.
5. Minimum recommended manifold pressure for condensing fittings is 12 H20.
6. Design manifold pressure of 40 H20 is recommended for:
a. Direct spray applications over 2000 fpm.
b. Applications where the ambient temp. at the fittings is close to the minimum recommended.

APPLICATION FITTING SELECTION CHART

APPLICATION FITTING
ORIFICE
TYPE
NO.
SIZE
LENGTH
-2
.032 DIA
.44
-4
.045 DIA
.44
MIST
-6
.055 DIA
.44
-10
.078 DIA
.44
-16
.089 DIA
.44
-05
SLOT .014R
.38
-1
SLOT .020R
.38
-2
2 SLOTS
.38
CONDENSING - 3
3 SLOTS
.38
-4
5 SLOTS
.38
-5
6 SLOTS
.38
CONDENSED
6 SLOTS &
.38
SPRAY
-6
.067 DIA
.97
-1
.024 DIA
1.35
SPRAY
-2
.035 DIA
1.38
FITTING
-3
.042 DIA
1.38
-5
.055 DIA
1.38
-8
.067 DIA
1.38
-1
.067D(1)
1.38
-2
.067D(2)
1.38
-3
.067D(3)
1.38
-4
.067D(4)
1.38
-5
.067D(5)
1.38
-6
.067D(6)
1.38
SPRAY
-7
.067D(7)
1.38
NOZZLE
-8
.067D(8)
1.38
-9
.067D(9)
1.38
- 10
.067D(10)
1.38
- 11
.067D(11)
1.38
- 12
.067D(12)
1.38
- 13
.067G(13)
1.38
-14
.067D(14)
1.38

FLOW AREA
.00078
.00159
.00238
.00478
.00622
.0003
.0006
.0012
.0018
.0030
.0036
.0036
.00045
.00096
.00138
.00353
.00353
.00705
.01058
.01410
.01763
.02115
.02468
.02820
.03173
.03526
.03878
.04231
.04583
.04936

APPLICATION FITTINGS STANDARD CFM

PRESSURE DROP-- INCHES WATER
2
5
8
12
20
30
40
.018
.033
.047
.030
.079
.095
.110
.036
.067
.096
.122
.161
.195
.224
.048
.100
.143
.184
.240
.290
.334
.100
.210
.295
.380
.495
.615
.715
.120
.280
.400
.520
.680
.830
.960
.013
.018
.024
.029
.031
.042
.055
.065
.062
.083
.109
.131
..091
.125
.164
.195
.149
.206
.271
.321
.178
.246
.312
.368

DIA.
.047
.064
.087
.111
.125
.028
.040
.055
.070
.089
.096

AREA
.00173
.00322
.00477
.00968
.012??
.00062
.00126
.00238
.00385
.00622
.00724

.132
.022
.038
.060
.118
.230
.240
.480
.720
.960
1.20
1.44
1.68
1.92
2.16
2.40
2.64
2.88
3.12
3.36

.096
.035
.052
.060
.078
.096
.096
.136
.166
.191
.213
.234
.250
.266
.290
.302
.313
.328
.344
.358

.00724
.00096
.00212
.002??
.004??
.00724
.00724
.01453
.02164
.02865
.03563
.04301
.04909
.05557
.06605
.0716?
.07???
.08???
.09294
.10066

.018
.030
.040
.090
.180
.190
.380
.570
.760
.950
1.14
1.33
1.52
1.71
1.90
2.09
2.28
2.47
2.66

.185
.029
.052
.078
.159
.300
.310
.620
.930
1.24
1.55
1.86
2.17
2.48
2.79
3.40
3.41
3.72
4.03
4.34

.236
.035
.066
.095
.198
.370
.380
.760
1.14
1.52
1.90
2.28
2.66
3.04
3.42
3.80
4.18
4.56
4.94
5.32

.277
.040
.078
.112
.230
.420
.460
.920
1.38
1.84
2.30
2.76
3.22
3.68
4.14
4.60
5.06
5.52
5.98
6.44

MIN. VENT

Oil Mist Application

29

SUMMARY OF CALCULATIONS FOR CFM INPUTS TO MACHINE ELEMENTS

based on oil/air ratio of 0.4 cubic inch oil/hour/cfm air
ROLLING ELEMENT BEARINGS (ANTI-FRICTION)
A. Moderate Service
B. Heavy Service
C. Rolling Mill Service

Spray and mist fittings are used.

cfm = DR/40
D = shaft diameter in inches
cfm = DR/20
R = number of rows of elements
cfm = DR/14

PLAIN BEARINGS
A. Moderate Service
B. Heavy Service
C. Heavy Service, High Loss

Condensing and spray fittings are used.

cfm = LD/100
L = bearing length in inches
cfm = LD/60
D = shaft diameter in inches
cfm = LD/30

SLIDES AND GIBS

WAYS

Condensing fittings are used.

cfm = A/800
cfm = A/400

A = maximum contact area in square

inches

Spray fittings are used.

GEARS
REVERSING GEARS

cfm = F(D1 + D2 + D3, etc.)/160 F = gear face width in inches

cfm = F(D1 + D2 + D3, etc.)/110 D1 = pitch diameter of small gear or worm
gear inches
WORM GEARS
cfm = F(2D1 + D2)/160
D2 = pitch diameter of large gear in inches
REVERSING WORM GEARS
D3, etc. = pitch diameter of additional gears
cfm = F(2D1 + D2)/110
If D2, D3, or any gear is larger than 2D1, in place of the larger gear, use 2D1
Spray fittings are used.
ROLLER CHAIN, POWER TRANSMITTING

SILENT CHAIN

CONVEYOR CHAIN

cfm = PDR
320

(S/100)3

cfm = WD
600

(S/100)3

Spray fittings are used.

cfm = 3DW + 0.1 LW
500

P = pitch of chain or sprocket in inches

D = pitch dia. of small sprocket in inches
R = number of rows of chain rollers
W = width of chain in inches
S = rpm of small sprocket

D = diameter of drive sprocket in inches

W = width of chain in inches
L = length of chain in inches

CAMS

Spray fittings are used.

cfm = FD/400

RECIRCULATING ROLLING ELEMENT NUTS

(ANTI-FRICTION BALL NUTS)

Spray and mist fittings are used.

D DR
D = pitch diameter of nut
CFM = 30 + 300
R = number of rows of elements

F = face width of cam in inches

D = maximum diameter of cam in inches

For heavy-duty bearings, with oil sumps, very lightly loaded: cfm = DR/80. Double-lip seals: D = D/40.

NOTES

NOTES

NOTES

Alemite Oil Mistual

Application Manual

7845 Little Avenue,

Charlotte, NC 28226
Phone: 704-542-6900
Toll-Free US/Canada: 866-4-Alemite
Fax US/Canada: 800-648-3917
w w w. a l e m i t e . c o m
02/04