Single-line lubrication systems serve the central supply of several lubrication points with a precisely metered amount of lubricant. The single-line system is used for both small and larger machines and replaces the lubricant lost due to evaporation and aging. Each lubrication point can be assigned a specific amount of lubricant using individually exchangeable dosing heads. The central lubrication system essentially consists of a single-line pump and a piston metering device as well as the main tube and lubrication lines.

Single-line pumps are used in the lubrication systems of different machines and systems. The application spectrum ranges from machine tools and plastic machines to escalators, compressors and wind turbines to printing, textile and packaging machines. For single-line systems, for example, the MonoFlex gear pumps of the MKU and MKF series can be used. These are predestined for use in intermittently operated central lubrication systems.

Technical basics for single-line lubrication systems

Lubrication points on moving components of machines and systems must be supplied with a different amount of lubricant to compensate for continuous losses due to evaporation or aging. In single-line lubrication systems, this requirement is met by exchangeable dosing heads on single-line metering devices.

The single-line pump is the heart of the central lubrication system and is responsible for providing a defined pressure to overcome the losses in the lines and consuming end units. The MonoFlex gear pumps of the MKU and MKF series can be used for lubrication with oil and fluid grease as well as for special oil-air lubrication systems.

Single-line metering devices distribute a fixed amount of lubricant to the lubrication points using interchangeable dosing heads. The grease or oil is then transported intermittently to the designated points via the lubrication point lines.

Advantages of single-line lubrication systems

Single-line lubrication systems are able to supply each lubrication point with a defined amount of lubricant in a precise manner. The applications range from smaller machine components such as compressors to printing machines to complex machining centers and wind turbines. One of the main advantages of the system is the modular principle, which enables the system to be gradually expanded. In this way, additional lubrication points can be integrated into the central lubrication without great effort.

Dimensioning, planning, operation and maintenance are comparatively straightforward, which means that both investment and operating costs are relatively low. The system can also be monitored using simple means.

The single line pumps of the MKU and MKF series

The MonoFlex gear pumps of the MKx series have been specially developed for use in central lubrication systems. While the MKU series is mainly used in systems with oils in a viscosity range of 20 to 1,500 mm²/s, the MKF single-line pumps are suitable for fluid greases of NLGI classes 000 and 00.

With both systems, depending on the lubrication points to be supplied, you can choose between different reservoir sizes and types with a volume of up to 6.0 liters of lubricant. The MKF pump suitable for fluid grease can be designed for flow rates of 0.1 or 0.2 liters of lubricant per minute at an operating pressure of 30 bar. The sister model MKU can also supply up to 0.5 liters per minute. On request, you can equip the single-line pumps with numerous technical features such as electrical pressure monitoring, an integrated control unit with time or cycle control, or level monitoring.

Gear pump units of the MKx product series

The units of the MKx product series are used in SKF MonoFlex single-line systems and already contain a pressure regulating and pressure relief valve. The units of the MKx product series are optionally available with or without a pressure gauge for optical monitoring of the pressure curve in the main line. The electrical pressure monitoring can be carried out by an integrated pressure switch. Fill level monitoring is also possible if required.

The control takes place externally via the machine control or via an integrated control unit. Delivery can also be carried out with a push button, which enables manual intermediate lubrication at any time. All important functions are integrated in the lid. A plastic cap protects the electrical components from environmental influences such as dirt and dust. The modular structure makes the units of the MKx product series interesting for machine manufacturers as well as for end users and dealers.

Gear pump unit MKU

Units of the MKU product series are suitable for pumping oil with a viscosity range of 20 to 1500 mm²/s. The units are available in the following reservoir designs:

2 liter plastic reservoir
3 liter plastic reservoir
3 liter metal reservoir
6 liter plastic reservoir

The units are optionally equipped with pressure switches and / or level switches. The electrical connection is made via DIN connectors or cable glands. Units with a reservoir content of 3 or 6 liters are optionally available with an integrated control unit.

Gear pump unit MKF

Units of the MKF product series are suitable for pumping fluid grease of NLGI classes 000 and 00. The units are available in the following reservoir designs:

2 liter plastic reservoir
3 liter plastic reservoir
6 liter plastic reservoir

Gear pump unit MKL

Units of the MKL product series are suitable for pumping oil with a viscosity range from 20 to 1500 mm²/s. The units are available in the following reservoir designs:

3 liter plastic reservoir
3 liter metal reservoir
6 liter plastic reservoir

The units are equipped with pressure switches and level switches, the signals of which are evaluated using an integrated control unit. The control unit also offers the option of evaluating the signal from an external air pressure switch for monitoring the oil+air system. The electrical connections are made using DIN connectors or cable glands.

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Single-line pumps for intermittent oil and fluid grease lubrication