SKF
Condition Assisted Lubrication (CAL)
Condition Assisted Lubrication (CAL) is a SKF innovation that integrates the lubrication system with condition monitoring sensors to deliver lubricant only when the bearing’s friction condition indicates it is needed, rather than on a fixed time or distance basis. A vibration or acoustic emission sensor mounted on or near the bearing housing detects changes in the friction signature, which correlates with lubricant film depletion or contamination. When a threshold is exceeded, the CAL controller triggers the automatic lubrication system to deliver a measured dose of grease to that specific bearing. After lubricating, the system monitors the effect — the vibration level should drop back to its baseline. CAL optimises lubricant consumption (reducing usage by up to 70% compared to fixed-interval greasing), prevents over-lubrication damage, and provides real-time feedback on bearing health. CAL represents the pinnacle of smart, Industry 4.0-ready lubrication, merging condition monitoring with automated lubrication into a closed-loop decision-making system.
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Trusted by Industry Leaders
Sensor‑Triggered Lubrication
Grease dispensed only when acoustic or vibration data indicates film starvation.
Closed‑Loop Feedback
Post‑lubrication measurement confirms effectiveness.
Up to 70% Lubricant Saving
Vs. fixed‑interval greasing.
Prevents Over‑Lubrication
Eliminates seal damage and churning heat.
Interface with CMMS
Logs lubrication events for full traceability.
Compatible with SKF Quickgrip and Multi‑Point Lubricators
Retrofittable to existing systems.
How CAL Transforms a Fixed‑Interval System into Condition‑Based
A 300‑bearing conveyor gallery can have many bearningin over‑greased and some under‑greased. CAL retrofits sensors to the highest‑risk bearings. When the acoustic emission signature rises, the controller activates the pump for that circuit. The result: lubricant applied only when needed, in the required quantity, validated by the sensor response.
Acoustic Emission: The Ear of the CAL System
SKF’s acoustic emission sensors “hear” the ultrasonic noise generated when metal‑to‑metal contact begins as the lubricant film depletes. This signal is detected long before vibration or temperature change, giving CAL an extremely early warning — often dozens of hours before conventional condition indicators would alarm.