Catene di foglie play a critical role in forklifts, stackers, and other lifting equipment. As key load-bearing and motion-transmitting components, their lubrication condition directly affects operational reliability, lifting efficiency, and overall service life. Poor lubrication is one of the most common causes of premature leaf chain wear and unexpected downtime.

To ensure stable performance under heavy loads, proper lubrication management should be treated as a core part of routine maintenance.

Selecting the Right Lubricant

Leaf chains used in lifting applications operate under high static and dynamic loads, often combined with impact forces. For this reason, standard light oils are not sufficient.

It is recommended to use high-viscosity chain oils or greases with strong adhesion and extreme-pressure (EP) properties, such as lubricants containing molybdenum disulfide (MoS₂). These lubricants can penetrate into internal contact areas and maintain a protective oil film even under heavy load and repeated lifting cycles.

Universal Chain’s BL series leaf chains are designed with optimized pin and plate tolerances, allowing lubricants to effectively enter wear-critical areas and provide long-term protection in demanding lifting applications.

Lubricating Critical Wear Points

The most important lubrication zones in a leaf chain are the clearance areas between pins and link plates (or plate holes). These interfaces experience the highest contact pressure during lifting operations and are the primary source of wear.

Lubrication should be applied using a manual pressure oil gun or a centralized lubrication system to ensure the lubricant reaches internal contact surfaces. Before re-lubrication, old grease, dust, and abrasive contaminants should be removed to prevent accelerated wear.

Universal Chain supports customers not only with high-quality leaf chains, but also with application guidance and maintenance recommendations, helping maintenance teams lubricate chains correctly and consistently.

Controlling Lubrication Frequency and Quantity

Lubrication intervals should be adjusted based on operating frequency, load intensity, environmental conditions, and visible oil loss on the chain surface. There is no fixed schedule that fits all applications.

As a general rule, lubrication volume should be sufficient to form a uniform oil film on the chain surface, without excessive dripping or dry spots. Over-lubrication can attract contaminants, while insufficient lubrication leads to dry friction and rapid wear.

Universal Chain provides technical support for chain selection and maintenance planning, enabling users to define suitable lubrication cycles for their specific lifting equipment.

Adapting to Special Operating Environments

Environmental conditions have a direct impact on lubricant performance. In humid or corrosive environments, rust-resistant lubricants should be used. In high-temperature applications, lubricants with strong thermal stability are essential to prevent oil breakdown.

By following these lubrication best practices, maintenance teams can significantly reduce wear, extend leaf chain service life, and ensure safe, stable operation of lifting equipment.

Conclusione

Effective lubrication is not just routine maintenance—it is a preventive strategy. Combined with properly designed leaf chains, consistent lubrication helps reduce operating risk, lower maintenance costs, and improve equipment uptime.

With stable quality, standardized BL series leaf chains, and responsive technical support, Universal Chain supports global customers in achieving reliable lifting performance and long-term operational efficiency.