Lubrication

In 1986 we had problems with a Picker Co60 machine. A bearing near the source, responsible for moving it, was jammed. (The bearing was in place for approximately five years. The distance from the source was about 5 to 10 cm, with the same distance of steel as shielding. The activity of the source was 3500 Curie). After removing the bearing we found that the grease inside had turned into a solid mass. We replaced this bearing by one which had no lubrication at all. After a few months we had to replace this one as well because of corrosion. I can't remember who advised us to use "Bostik NEVER SEEZ Nuclear Grade" but the last two years of the machines life there were no more problems. (Frankly speaking, we had a lot of trouble, but not with the bearings). Since then we also use this lubricant in the high radiation zones in our linacs and we are quite satisfied.

Bostik
Boston Street
Middleton, MA 01949
(508) 777-0100