What role does a jacking oil pump primarily serve in relation to bearings?

The primary function of a jacking oil pump is crucial for the safe and efficient operation of machinery with rotating shafts, such as turbines or large motors. This pump is designed specifically to lift the shaft before rotation begins.

When machinery is started, the jacking oil pump operates to supply oil under pressure, which creates a thin film of oil between the shaft and the bearings. This action elevates the shaft and helps prevent metal-to-metal contact during startup, thereby reducing wear and potential damage to the bearing surfaces. This pre-loaded oil film ensures that the bearings are adequately lubricated, minimizing friction as the shaft begins to rotate.

This operational process is vital for preventing failures caused by inadequate lubrication, which could occur if the shaft were allowed to rest directly on the bearings without the protective oil film. Therefore, the ability of the jacking oil pump to lift the shaft is essential for extending the lifespan of both the bearing and the shaft.

While cooling the bearings, monitoring bearing temperature, and supplying low-pressure oil are important aspects of overall bearing maintenance and operation, they are not the primary responsibility of the jacking oil pump. The focus is predominantly on ensuring that the shaft is lifted and properly supported at startup to prevent damage and enhance operational reliability.