MK Plastics RKW IO&M - Manual (Page 7)

7
Establish a schedule for inspecting all parts of the fan. The frequency of inspection depends on the operating conditions and
location of the fan.
Inspect fans exhausting corrosive or contaminated air within the first month of operation. Fans exhausting contaminated air
(airborne particles) should be inspected every three months, or sooner. Regular inspections are recommended for fans
exhausting non-contaminated air.
It is recommended the following inspection be conducted twice per year.

Inspect bolts and setscrews for tightness. Tighten as necessary. Worn setscrews should be replaced immediately.
 Inspect belt wear and alignment. Replace worn belts with new belts and adjust alignment as needed. See Belt and
Pulley Installation on page. 4.

Inspect springs and rubber isolators for deterioration and replace as needed.
 Inspect for cleanliness. Clean exterior surfaces only. Removing dust and grease on motor housing assures proper
motor cooling. Removing dirt from the wheel and housing prevents imbalance and damage.
Lubricants
M.K. Plastics uses petroleum lubricant in a lithium base. Other types should not be used unless the bearings and lines have
been flushed clean. If another type of grease is used, it should be lithium-based grease conforming to NLGI grade 2
consistencies.
A NLGI grade 2 grease is a light viscosity, low-torque, and rust inhibiting lubricant that is water resistant. Its temperature range
is from –30ºF to +200ºF and capable of intermittent highs of +250ºF.
Motor Bearings
Motor bearings are pre-lubricated and sealed. Under normal conditions they will not require further maintenance for a period of
10 years. However, it is advisable to have your maintenance department remove and disassemble the motor, and lubricate the
bearings after 3 years of operation in excessive heat and or in a contaminated air stream consisting of airborne particles.
Fan Bearings
RKW fans normally have permanently sealed flange-bearings that do not require greasing. However, some fans could have
greasable pillow-block bearings. These bearings are lubricated through a grease fitting on the bearing and should be lubricated
by the schedule, Conditions Chart.
Conditions Chart
RPM Temperature Fan Status Greasing Interval
100 Up to 120ºF Clean 6 to 12 months
500 Up to 150ºF Clean 2 to 6 months
1000 Up to 210ºF Clean 2 weeks to 2 months
1500 Over 210ºF Clean Weekly
Any Speed Up to 150ºF Dirty 1 week to 1 month
Any Speed Over 150ºF Dirty Daily to 2 weeks
Any Speed Any Temperature Very Dirty Daily to 2 weeks
Any Speed Any Temperature Extreme Conditions Daily to 2 weeks
For best results, lubricate the bearings while the fan is in operation. Pump grease in slowly until a slight bead forms around the
bearing seals. Excessive grease can burst seals resulting in high operating temperatures, thus reducing bearing life.
In the event the bearing cannot be seen, use no more than three injections with a hand-operated grease gun.
Motor Service
Should the motor prove defective within one-year period, contact M.K. Plastics directly, or your nearest motor service
representative.
Changing Shaft Speed
All belt driven fans with motors up to and including 3 hp (182T max.) are equipped with variable pitch motor pulleys. To change
the fan speed, perform the following:
1. Loosen setscrews on driver (motor) pulley and remove key, if equipped.
2. Turn the pulley rim to open or close the groove facing. If the pulley has multiple grooves, all must be adjusted to the
same width.
3. After adjustment, inspect for proper belt tension and alignment.
Speed Reduction
Open the pulley in order that the belt rides deeper in the
groove (smaller pitch diameter).
Speed Increase
Close the pulley in order that the belt rides higher in the
groove (larger pitch diameter). Ensure that the RPM limits
of the fan and the horsepower limits of the motor are
maintained, which can be read on the motor nameplate.
Pulley & Belt Replacement