Manually operated grease pumps or "guns" are generally either lever-style or hand-grip style. The hand-grip style grease gun allows the applicator to hold the hose on the fitting with one hand and pump grease with the other.

Proper training of the personnel using the grease guns is very important. A high volume grease gun can develop pressures as high as 15000 psi and most bearing seals are damaged at a pressure of 500 psi.

Manual grease guns should be calibrated to determine the amount of grease applied per stroke. High volume grease guns should not be used on bearings that only require a few grams of grease for lubrication.

• Calculate the proper amount of grease for lubrication of bearings based on the calibration amount for the grease gun.
• If possible install a vent plug on sealed bearings to prevent over pressurization and facilitate removal of old grease.
• Avoid contamination when reloading grease guns. Do not reload in a dusty environment and wipe off surfaces with a clean cloth.
• Always wipe of the fittings on the bearing and the gun with a clean cloth prior to grease application. Flush the grease gun tip with a small quantity of grease and then wipe it off.
• If incompatible grease types are used at a location, the grease guns and fittings should be color coded with paint or other marking to help avoid misapplication.
• Store grease guns in a clean, dry area and avoid exposure to excessive heat.
• Calibrate grease guns on a regular basis. Re-calibration is needed when changing grease suppliers.
• Insure safety by re-piping fittings that are near rotating machinery or other potential hazards.

The chief disadvantage of grease guns, compared to centralized lubrication systems, is poor control which can lead to over or under lubrication.

Technical Service
Universal Lubricants, Inc.
April, 2003 - 0403.02

For more information, please contact our Technical Services Dept. at 1-800-444-6457.

Universal Lubricants is a trademark of Universal Lubricants, Inc. and the Universal logo is a registered trademark.
All other trademarks are the property of the respective companies.
Telephone:  800-444-OILS Fax: (316) 832-0301
The URL of this page is http:\\www.universallubes.com\NatGas.htm