A positive displacement lubrication system is disclosed that includes a
rotatable shaft, a bearing, and a centrifugal force generating
lubrication member that is mounted on the shaft for rotation with the
shaft. The centrifugal force generator is spaced from the bearing member.
A labyrinthine lubricant flow passage extends from the bearing, through a
space between the bearing and the centrifugal force generating member, to
the outlet member. Among other things, the system and method provides an
efficient method of actively managing bearing lubrication and removal of
lubricant, while also acting to seal off bearing areas from leaking. The
positive displacement devices can be used for both grease and oil mist
lubrication systems. They can also operate under heavy thrust loads when
used to support the bearings.