The new Garlock SGi shaft grounding bearing isolator protects bearings from electrical damage as well as from lubricant loss and contamination. The Garlock SGi combines the technologies of the Garlock Guardian non-sparking bronze labyrinth seal and the AEGIS shaft grounding ring in a single unit.
It handles motors controlled by variable frequency drives (VFDs) running pumps, fans, high-speed spindles and other equipment in "severe-duty" applications such as mining and the processing of pulp/paper, food, pharmaceuticals, chemicals and water/wastewater.
Commonly used to save energy, VFDs induce motor-shaft currents that can damage bearings, completely wiping out any energy cost savings. Standard bearing seals only keep out contamination and prevent leaks, but the Garlock SGi diverts harmful currents safely to ground, bypassing the bearings entirely and extending motor life.
The Aegis FiberLock channel built into the Garlock SGi permanently secures circumferential rows of conductive microfibers, preventing their dislocation and the resulting accidental contamination of the bearing. The microfibers themselves, proven in hundreds of thousands of installations to protect bearings from harmful currents, are specially engineered for exceptional flexibility to prevent breakage and ensure that the SGi will last for the service life of the motor.
