Dynamoelectric machine lubrication system and method of assembling the

Abstract

An illustrated lubrication arrangement substantially prevents end leakage oil from flowing along the shaft to an oil thrower, and also causes end leakage oil to recirculate through wicking material to a feed wick which in turn feeds oil to a bearing clearance. A feed wick includes a feeding portion that extends through a window in the bearing and contacts the shaft. This same wick includes recirculatory pick-up wicks that protrude into a capillary oil collection region at each end of the bearing. The pick-up wicks have a smaller cumulative effective axial length than the feeding tab of the wick. The pick-up wicks also contact the shaft, and they recirculate end leakage oil to the feeding tab because of gradients in oil content within the wicking that interconnects the pick-up wicks with the feeding tab. The pick-up wicks and feeding tab may actually be separate pieces, the capillary interstices of which communicate with each other. One method includes positioning a feed wick so that it is pushed toward the shaft by its ends, and the material from which the feed wick is made will act as a beam which limits the amount of pressure between the shaft, feed wick, and pick-up tabs. Moreover, the wick structure preferably is sway-backed to facilitate assembly of the wick in the bearing lubrication cavity, and to establish a re-oiling cavity.