Follower Plates for stable system integration

In industrial lubricant delivery, the follower plate is the decisive component for reliable media extraction from original containers. When delivering high-viscosity greases (up to NLGI class 3), there is a risk without a follower plate that the pump will draw a funnel into the medium (tunneling or cratering). This leads to the suction of air, resulting in cavitation within the pump mechanism and process interruptions in the dispensing chain. ABNOX follower plates eliminate this risk through vacuum-assisted tracking of the medium.

The follower plate rests directly on the surface of the lubricant. Due to the vacuum created during the pump's suction process, the plate is pressed downwards by atmospheric pressure. This mechanical pressure ensures that the medium is continuously pushed into the suction tube of the delivery pump without air inclusions. Furthermore, the plate serves as a protective barrier against oxidation and the ingress of ambient contaminants.
 

Product Specification

Manufactured from robust materials for use in standard containers (e.g., 5 kg to 200 kg). The circumferential, elastic sealing lip is chemically resistant to common industrial lubricants and cleanly wipes the container wall as it descends. This reduces the residual quantity in the container to a minimum and optimizes material utilization. Central openings are precisely matched to the suction tube diameters of ABNOX delivery pumps to ensure a hermetic seal at the interface.

• Sealing Lip Geometry: 
  The flexible edge seal compensates for slight deformations in metal or plastic containers and guarantees a constant vacuum.
• Base Plate Stability: 
  Solid construction to prevent deformation when handling high viscosities and powerful suction capacities.
• Bleeding Mechanism: 
  Integrated bleed valves or ports allow for easy placement of the plate onto a full container as well as trouble-free removal after emptying.
• Wear Resistance: 
  Use of high-performance elastomers (e.g., NBR), which offer a long service life even with frequent container changes and contact with abrasive media.

The use of ABNOX follower plates is a fundamental prerequisite for the automated continuous operation of lubrication and dispensing systems. By completely evacuating air from the suction area, a constant compressibility of the media column is ensured. This leads to high repeatability of the dispensing cycles and protects the system from uncontrolled pressure fluctuations. Furthermore, the clean wiping of the inner container walls reduces operating costs by maximizing the utilization of the available lubricant. Consequently, follower plates form the technological basis for trouble-free and economical tribology.