Metering units are devices used in automatic lubrication systems to precisely control and measure the amount of oil or lubricant delivered to each lubrication point. Here are the key points about metering units:
Types of Metering Units
Different types of metering units are used in various lubrication system designs:
Metering Units for Circulating Systems
- Features: Include a check valve to prevent lubricant backflow between cycles.
- Examples: Bijur Delimon’s FJB, FSA, and ASA units.
Control Devices for Continuous Systems
- Features: These units have an internal helical bore to control flow rate but do not include a check valve.
- Examples: CJB, CSA, and CT units.
Working Principle of Metering Units
Metering units are the final control elements that determine the amount of lubricant distributed to each bearing point. The pump delivers a known quantity of lubricant to the distribution network, and the metering units allocate varying amounts of lubricant to lubrication points.
- Control Mechanism: Each metering unit’s outlet is controlled by a fixed orifice, a movable pin, and an internal check valve.
- Flow Rate Determination: The size of the metering orifice and valve pin determines the metering rate, while the check valve prevents system pressure loss between cycles.
Metering Rates
Metering units come in different sizes, with flow rates ranging from 3/0 (slow) to 5 (fast). Each step up in flow rate doubles the amount of oil delivered. The flow rate is stamped on the unit body, with arrows indicating the flow direction.
Applications
Metering units are used in automatic lubrication systems for various industrial equipment and machinery to ensure a continuous and optimal supply of lubricant to each point. This improves reliability and reduces maintenance compared to manual lubrication. Applications include:
- Construction and Mining Equipment
- Machine Tools
- Material Handling Systems
- Food Processing and Packaging Machinery
- Wind Turbines
By using metering units, these systems maintain precise control over lubrication, ensuring efficient operation and extended equipment life.
How To Order
| Name | P.N. | Flow |
| SBJ-0 | 33013 | 0(slow) |
| SBJ-1 | 33014 | 1 |
| SBJ-2 | 33015 | 2 (medium fast) |
| SBJ-3 | 33016 | 3 fast |
| SBJ-4 | 33017 | 4 |
| SBJ-5 | 33018 | 5(extra, extra fast) |
FAQ — Metering Unit
What is a metering unit?
A metering unit is a lubrication component that measures and controls the exact amount of oil or lubricant delivered to each lubrication point in an automatic lubrication system.
How does the metering unit work?
It uses a fixed orifice, a movable pin, and an internal check valve to dispense a preset amount of lubricant and prevent backflow between cycles.
What is the difference between a metering unit and a control device?
A metering unit is used in cyclic or circulating lubrication systems and includes a check valve, while a control device is used in continuous systems and controls flow without a check valve.
What flow rates are available?
Common flow rates range from 3/0 to 5, with each step increasing the amount of lubricant delivered to the lubrication point.
How do I choose the right flow rate?
Choose the flow rate based on bearing size, load, lubrication interval, and lubricant demand at each point, with slower rates for small bearings and faster rates for heavier applications.
What applications use metering units?
Metering units are used in construction equipment, mining machinery, machine tools, material handling systems, food processing lines, packaging machinery, and wind turbines.
What are the main advantages?
They provide precise lubricant dosing, help reduce waste, improve lubrication consistency, and support longer machine life with lower maintenance needs.
How do I identify the flow direction?
Look for the arrow stamped on the body of the unit, which shows the correct one-way flow direction for installation.
What are the order codes for the SBJ series?
Typical order codes include SBJ-0, SBJ-1, SBJ-2, SBJ-3, SBJ-4, and SBJ-5, corresponding to different flow levels.
What should I check during installation?
Make sure the unit matches the system type, the thread and flow rate are correct, the direction arrow is followed, and the lubricant is clean and suitable for the application.
Related lubrication resources
Industrial lubrication systems · Automatic lubrication · Grease pump systems
Before you buy: read our grease fitting types guide.
