WS-E Chain Lubrication Systems

WS-E chain lubrication units are electrically driven oil lubrication systems designed for the targeted, metered lubrication of chains and moving components. They are used primarily in single-line consumption lubrication systems supplying dynamic ZE-E distributors.

What Is the WS-E Chain Lubrication Unit?

The WS-E is a gear-pump-driven chain lubrication unit that delivers mineral oil to downstream distributors in controlled pulses. These distributors dispense lubricant directly to chains, joints, rollers, hinges, and similar moving components using a high-speed droplet (flying drop) method.

The system is engineered for applications where precise oil delivery is required without continuous pressurization of the lubrication lines.

How the WS-E System Works

When the electric motor is running, oil is drawn from the reservoir by the flange-mounted gear pump and circulated back to the tank through a de-energized 3/2-way solenoid valve.

When the solenoid valve is energized, the circulation path is interrupted. Oil is then directed toward the outlet and supplied to the downstream ZE-E distributors, which dispense a pre-defined quantity of lubricant to each lubrication point in the form of fast, targeted droplets.

When the solenoid valve is de-energized, pressure in the main line drops and circulation resumes. The system design maintains residual pressure in the line to ensure consistent lubrication cycles.

Designed for Chain Lubrication Applications

WS-E systems are specifically designed for chain lubrication and oil-based consumption lubrication. Typical applications include:

• Conveyor chains
• Drive and transport chains
• Roller chains and joints
• Hinges and articulated machine components
• Moving parts requiring oil lubrication rather than grease

System Configuration Options

WS-E chain lubrication units can be configured as:

• Single-line systems
• Multi-line systems supplying up to six lubrication lines

Multi-line versions use additional solenoid valves to control each line individually, allowing precise lubrication of multiple chain zones from a single unit.

Key Operating Characteristics

• Electric motor-driven gear pump
• Maximum operating pressure: 30 bar
• Feed volume: approximately 1.2 l/min
• Lubrication rate: up to 7 droplets per second (viscosity dependent)
• Designed for mineral oils with viscosity from 40 to 900 mm²/s
• Reservoir sizes: 4 L, 12 L, 30 L, or 100 L
• Supports 1 to 6 lubrication lines

Integrated Monitoring and Safety

WS-E units are available with level monitoring via float switches, pressure limitation valves, and optional junction boxes. These features support system reliability, low-level alerts, and safe operation within defined pressure limits.

When to Use a WS-E Chain Lubrication System

• When chains require precise oil lubrication
• When droplet-based lubrication is preferred over continuous flow
• When multiple chain lines must be lubricated independently
• When lubricant consumption control is critical

When the WS-E Is Not the Right Choice

• Grease-based lubrication systems
• Progressive divider valve systems
• Dual-line lubrication systems requiring pressure reversal
• Applications outside the specified oil viscosity range

Key Benefits

• Accurate, metered oil delivery
• Reduced lubricant consumption
• Cleaner chain operation
• Extended chain and component life
• Scalable system design for complex machines