controls are released indicate a potential issue with the brakes not maintaining a load securely, and could be a sign of potential sprag clutch wear or failure. Proper inspection of the brake clutch assembly is crucial to maintaining safe and uninterrupted operations.
Oil Sampling Oil sampling is an integral inspection point and extremely important due to accelerated wear that can result from insufficient lubrication.
In planetary hoists, oil sampling is performed by taking a lubricant sample from the hoist gear cavity. The oil should be analyzed for wear metals, content, correct viscosity, lubricant deterioration, moisture or other contaminants.
To assess wear and tear effectively, compare the iron content in the oil sample to the hoist manufacturer’ s recommended practices, being sure to follow all iron containment guidelines. From a safety and operational perspective, it’ s notable that oil analysis can neither detect nor warn against a fatigue failure.
Annual Inspection
An annual inspection includes all daily and quarterly checks plus changing the lubricating oil in the hoist gear cavity after an oil sample has been taken. Refill the hoist to the proper level using only the recommended gear oil.
Whenever the oil is changed, the vent plug should be removed and inspected for damage. Make sure it is unobstructed, functional and cleaned using solvent before reinstalling.
Taking shortcuts with inspection guidelines or putting off maintenance threatens to degrade operational capabilities, but it can also expose human life to greater risk.
May 2025 • www. thepartsconnection. org • 13