【正文】
ines the distribution of the cyclic, circumferential bending stresses in the kiln shell. Excessive ovality can result in circumferential bending fatigue in the kiln shell and refractory lining failures. The ovality is either calculated on the basis of the tyre migration or measured via the Shell Test method. Axial balance Although a rotary kiln is always in axial balance, the axial balance can be established either between large forces or preferably, in order to ensure the availability, between small forces. The state of axial balance is defined by the degree of parallelism between the kiln axis and the axes of the individual supporting rollers determining the magnitude and directions of the axial frictional forces between the tyres and supporting rollers and on the thrust roller(s). Large axial forces may result in hot supporting roller bearings, failure of the thrust device(s) or damaged end seals. Kiln crank A kiln crank, whether mechanical or thermal, can cause excessive, extra, cyclic loads between supporting rollers and tyres and stresses in the kiln shell. A mechanical crank is caused by a permanent deformation in the kiln shell, whereas a thermal crank is caused by temperature variations along the circumference of the kiln shell, and so it is present only during operation of the hot kiln. Excessive crank formation can lead to failure of contact surfaces, supporting roller shafts, tyres, kiln shell and lining. The kiln shell is checked for crank formation by measuring the variations in the deflection of the supporting roller shafts, which has to stay within certain limits. Kiln drive An examination of the kiln drive constitutes another important element of a kiln inspection. The condition of the kiln drive is determined by measurering of the axial and radial wobbling of the girth gear as well as evaluation of the mesh and root clearance between the girth gear and pinion(s). Further, the condition of the tooth profiles, the lubrication of the gears, as well as the stud bolt connections between the girth gear and the spring plates and the welds between the spring plates and the kiln shell are examined. To plete the examination o