This topic contains 1 reply, has 2 voices, and was last updated by  hajis 4 weeks ago.

Viewing 2 posts - 1 through 2 (of 2 total)

Forum replies


  • lanolot744
    Participant
    lanolot744

    Hi everyone,

    our open-pit copper mine’s main overland conveyor started jerking violently under full ore weight this morning. The electrical draw on the drive motor is spiking wildly, and the secondary housing is emitting a low, rhythmic grinding sound.

    We drained a fluid sample from the lower sump, only to find fine metal silt along with small brass flakes. Our maintenance tech thinks the planetary sun gear is missing teeth, but I suspect the input shaft seal failed and allowed abrasive dirt inside. Should we flush the unit on-site, or is a full industrial gearbox repair unavoidable?

    Thanks in advance

    7 September 2026 at 04:12 #23631

    hajis
    Participant
    hajis

    Hi everyone, violent jerking under heavy ore load combined with brass flakes in the sump means your planetary carrier bushings or thrust washers are actively disintegrating.

    Abrasive mine dust mixed with oil acts like liquid sandpaper, quickly grinding down precision gear teeth and causing severe mesh binding. Never run a jerking drive unit under load, as loose metal silt will travel through the oil passages and ruin the main Cotta casing.

    Immediately isolate the conveyor, pull the side inspection cover, and measure total shaft backlash. Booking a professional gearbox repair will prevent complete shaft seizure and protect your assembly. You will avoid massive plant downtime by completing a timely gearbox repair.

    7 September 2026 at 04:13 #23632
Viewing 2 posts - 1 through 2 (of 2 total)

You must be logged in to reply to this topic.