Vane material: Lube-free options

This new LubeFree option has expanded GAST’s range of 2AM, 4AM and 6AM Series air motors and affords operators the flexibility to modify their maintenance schedules or save money by eliminating oil, lubricator components and system maintenance. 

Existing 2, 4 and 6AM Series motors – which are used in applications such as chemical, paint and sanitary mixing, pump drive, material handling, and other industrial and remote applications – can be upgraded and retrofitted using a LubeFree vane kit.

Gast Group’s Andrew Lidington says pneumatic motors operating with in-line lubricators boost life, improve efficiency and act as a protectorant of surface finishes against dirty or humid inlet air. However, ensuring that motors are regularly oiled can be costly, cumbersome and, in some applications, not an acceptable option. 

“With the LubeFree AM Series option, GAST now has a simple and effective solution. In fact, independent tests have shown more than 10,000h of operation in completely oil-less applications and, when lubricated regularly or even occasionally, the motor’s life can be extended by up to 110%” says Andrew.

There are two LubeFree AM Series options available. The 'LL' option offers new vanes with light oil and minimal rust protection, which is suitable for applications where motors rarely get oiled or maintained or where there’s a need to eliminate lubricators completely. For a truly oil-less option where even the slightest contamination cannot be tolerated, the 'NLP' option provides a fully oil-free construction with complete corrosion protection for harsh or damp conditions.

The compact and portable 2, 4 and 6AM Series offer operating speeds and power output that can be adjusted to meet the precise needs of the application. Air throttling and pressure control is not only cost-effective over electric motor controls, but they can be stalled or overloaded for long periods without damaging the motor. Additionally, they are cool running and have no electrical spark, which makes them suitable for use in hazardous locations.