Lubrication evacuation method

Abstract

A method for removing lubricant grease from enclosed gear train housings of motor operated valves, having one or more ports. First, bulk lubricant grease in the housing is removed by suction through an evacuation wand inserted into the housing. Second, remaining lubricant grease in the housing is mechanically dislodged and physically dissolved by flushing the housing with a solvent for the lubricant grease delivered through a fluid lance inserted into the housing. Third, any lubricant grease/solvent residue in the housing is removed by evacuation through one or more ports in the housing. The method can include rinsing the housing interior and partially drying the housing interior prior to any relubrication. The method can optionally include measuring and analyzing quantities of lubricant grease removed from the housing. A variety of flexible evacuation wands for use in the method can be easily attached to the source of the suction. A fluid lance for use in the method can be an oscillating head, multi-port lance that automatically advances and retracts. The lance has a frame having a perforated drum head disposed of at one end of the frame. A rotating pneumatic motor is connected to the lance shaft via a rocker arm and cam causing oscillation of the lance parallel to the shaft of the motor. A channel in the lance from the handle thereof through the shaft to the drum is adapted for the passage of fluid through the handle and motor to the drum, permitting injection of a fluid through the oscillating drum at elevated temperatures or pressures or both.