Maintenance of Shrink Fitting Sleeves After Extended Operation
Shrink fitting sleeves are susceptible to fatigue over time due to their operation under high torque for extended periods, which leads to wear and tear between the sleeve and the fasteners. Additionally, because sintering machines are typically large, repairs can be challenging. In light of this, polymer composite materials are increasingly used for on-site repairs. These materials offer a reliable method for matching parts with the operational state of the equipment and addressing wear and tear, typically through a process involving both part restoration and mold repairs.
When performing repairs, several key steps must be followed:
Surface Treatment of Worn Areas:
The worn parts of the shaft neck and the inner bore of the gear should be treated to ensure they are clean, dry, and roughened. This creates a good surface for bonding with the repair material. After the treatment, the surface should be coated with the polymer-metal repair material (e.g., 2211 f). This material should then be leveled with a straightedge and cured.
Repair of the Shaft Diameter:
The shaft diameter surface needs to be covered with the polymer-metal repair material. After the application, the material should be leveled and cured to ensure it forms a smooth, durable surface. The material will bond firmly with the shaft and prevent further wear.
Gear Bore Repair:
After the surface treatment of the gear bore, a more effective repair material should be applied. This material should be chosen for its superior performance characteristics. Once the repair material is applied, it should be marked for identification and cured. This curing process hardens the material and ensures that the bore’s surface is smooth.
Final Assembly:
After the repair material has been cured and the surface is leveled, the repair material is applied to both the inner and outer surfaces of the shrink fitting sleeve. The assembly process can then proceed, ensuring that all parts fit securely and function as intended.
By following these repair steps, the shrink fitting sleeve’s function can be restored, allowing it to continue operating under the required load and torque conditions. The use of polymer composite materials enhances the repair process by providing a durable, cost-effective solution to part wear and extending the operational life of the equipment.