[SCzEngrgGroup]

There was a thread here a while back discussing automatic oiling systems. Below is a thread showing what I've done for mine. It will be 100% automated, based on spindle on-time, with the quantity of oil being delivered to each oiling point during each cycle being software selectable, so no worries about over- or under-oiling any circuit(s). All the goofy (and unreliable) flow-control/check valves are eliminated, making the system very reliable.

http://www.cnczone.com/forums/novako...tic-oiler.html

Regards,
Ray L.

[wildwhl]

Thank you for sharing, Ray.

WW

[GLCarlson]

Thanks!

[popspipes]

I was thinking about a series of small solenoids on each of the oil lines each controlled by arduino in sequence, one at a time from a pressurized reservoir.
I only have one that isnt performing so I just hand oil it each time, luckily its one that is easily accessible.

[SCzEngrgGroup]

I was thinking about a series of small solenoids on each of the oil lines each controlled by arduino in sequence, one at a time from a pressurized reservoir.
I only have one that isnt performing so I just hand oil it each time, luckily its one that is easily accessible.

That will work, but it's an expensive way to go (13 solenoid valves and 13 relays), but will take up a lot more space, and will have MANY more fittings and electrical connections, making for MANY more possible failures. I did that on my knee mill years ago, but this is a much better, simpler, easier solution, and for the last year the valve has worked flawlessly.

I just got the new valve tested under oil pressure, then mounted on the machine and plumbed up. Works perfectly, and only one solenoid valve, and one relay.

Regards,
Ray L.

[kstrauss]

Using a progressive lubricator

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-cW7d9qQIa0 and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U7UN1jmT7P8

is somewhat appealing but is expensive and would be challenging to make.

[IMT]

Using a progressive lubricator

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-cW7d9qQIa0 and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U7UN1jmT7P8

is somewhat appealing but is expensive and would be challenging to make.

Seems the tiny passages would eventually clog up. I like the direct switching valve idea better. As long as the valve switches you will get lube to the all the circuits.

[kstrauss]

The volume of oil delivered is determined by the displacements of the pistons so there is no reason that the passages have to be particularly tiny. But I agree, Ray's approach is far better for home construction.