What's the operating temperature for Amarillo pump drives and how can I check it?

What's the operating temperature for Amarillo pump drives and how can I check it?

What's the maximum operating temperature?

The maximum oil temperature for an Amarillo Pump Drive is 82C (180F) for mineral oil. This oil temperature reading needs to be taken from the oil sump.

Oil temperatures at other locations will naturally be higher than the oil sump as this is the coolest oil for models with an internal cooling coil.

We do not make any specific recommendations regarding temperature readings taken at other locations. Known as "skin temperature" these can vary base on a number of factors that are outside the control of the manufacturer. 

Where should I be measuring the oil temperature?

The best location to be measuring the oil temperature is directly from the oil using a thermocouple or similar device. You can insert a probe through the oil fill port.

The best and most reliable equipment to use for measuring the oil temperature is a temperature gauge and thermowell permamently fitted to the gearbox drain port. A thermowell MUST be used when installing a themometer as it will need to be installed below the oil level. Temperature gauges are not designed to be plugs and can easily be broken, allowing oil to leak out resulting in gearbox failure.

Where can I purchase a thermowell and temperature gauge?

Thermowells and temperature gauges can be purchased from us. The items we supply have been selected in order not to interfere with the internal cooling coil, and not foul on internal features. As there is limited room inside the gearbox, the correct length thermowell must be used.

What about Synthetic Oil?

The debate over synthetic vs mineral oil to too long to go into in this article. Yes, synthetic oil will allow higher operating temperatures however it should not be used as a bandaid for high operating temperatures. There are a number of reasons your gearbox may be running hot, and they should be thorougly investigated before switching to synthetic oil.

I would like some more advice. Who can I call?

For all technical equiries in Australian and New Zealand, please contact us on +61 3 9874 4299 or send us an enquiry through our webpage at www.hebco.com.au. If you are outside Australia or New Zealand, please contact Amarillo Gear Co directly on +1 806 622 1273 or through their website at www.amarillogear.com.


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