Hello,
I am restoring an old 36″ band saw that has babbit bearings on the arbor shaft. There is a trough above the bearings with holes that allow lubricant to the bearings. I have heard felt mentioned but have not found a source.
Any input would be appreciated.
Thanks!
Ken
Replies
You may try to visit this site and this site too.
Hope those links would help..
bart
http://www.bandsawblog.com
another source of info
I have no experience with remaking/reforming babbit bearings, so I can't be of much direct help.
In addition to the references given above, you might try posting your question on The Burl. Jeff Heath, who posts there fairly frequently, is an expert on restoring "old iron".
http://forums.delphiforums.com/burl/messages
McMaster Carr is a source for wool wicking felt in a variety of shapes. It is used with thinner lubricating oils. These days it has been largely replaced with pneumatic mist lubricators on the high speed bearings that require thin oil. I've used in in applications that didn't justify the cost of the mist lubricators.
A 36" band saw wheel has a circumference of about 10', so you are looking at a rotational speed of 500 rpm producing a blade speed of 5,000 fpm. At that low rotational speed, a heavier lubricant would be in order. I have one low speed babbit left to my name. I replaced the drip lubricator with a zerk fitting and lube it with grease. There's a bit more drag, but I never worry about a dry bearing. A more conscientious person could use a drip lubricator and 30 weight non detergent oil. Heavier oildoes not wick well.
This forum post is now archived. Commenting has been disabled