While a large portion of bearings in industrial machinery is lubricated automatically, a significant number of bearings are still greased manually. Manual greasing, usually conducted using a grease gun, remains crucial for certain applications and equipment. Proper techniques are essential to ensure effective lubrication, prevent bearing failure, and maintain the longevity of industrial machinery.
As the leading grease supplier in the Philippines, Fluid Solutions provides comprehensive lubrication solutions to meet your needs.
Why Use a Grease Gun for Manual Lubrication?
Despite the prevalence of automated lubrication systems, manual greasing remains essential for certain applications. A grease gun is a widely used tool for manual lubrication, offering several advantages that make it indispensable in various industrial settings. Here’s why using a grease gun for manual lubrication is beneficial:
1. Precision and Control
A grease gun allows precise control over the amount of grease applied to each lubrication point. This precision is crucial because both over-greasing and under-greasing can lead to bearing failure. Over-greasing can cause excessive heat buildup and pressure while under-greasing can result in inadequate lubrication and increased wear. With a grease gun, maintenance personnel can apply the exact amount of grease needed.
2. Versatility
Grease guns are versatile tools that can be used across a wide range of applications. They are suitable for various types of grease and can be used on different machinery components, from bearings and gears to chains and couplings. This versatility makes grease guns a valuable addition to any maintenance toolkit, allowing for consistent and effective lubrication in diverse industrial environments.
3. Portability
The portability of grease guns makes them ideal for on-site maintenance and repair tasks. Maintenance personnel can easily carry grease guns to different locations within a facility or to remote job sites. This mobility ensures that lubrication tasks can be performed wherever and whenever needed.
4. Cost-Effectiveness
Manual lubrication with a grease gun is a cost-effective solution for maintaining machinery. While automated systems can be expensive to install and maintain, grease guns are relatively inexpensive and require minimal maintenance.
5. Ease of Use
Grease guns are easy to use, requiring minimal training for maintenance personnel. With simple mechanisms and clear operation procedures, grease guns enable quick and efficient lubrication tasks. This ease of use is particularly beneficial in fast-paced industrial environments where downtime needs to be minimized.
6. Enhanced Maintenance Practices
Using a grease gun for manual lubrication encourages more frequent and thorough maintenance checks. Maintenance personnel must regularly inspect lubrication points and grease levels, promoting a proactive approach to machinery upkeep. This routine inspection helps identify potential issues early, preventing major breakdowns and extending the lifespan of equipment.
Tips for Using a Grease Gun
1. Know the Proper Amount of Grease
Before using a grease gun, it is vital to know the proper amount of grease required per bearing or lubrication port. Over-greasing or under-greasing can lead to lubrication issues and potential bearing failure. Determine the correct number of strokes needed for each bearing to ensure optimal performance.
2. Use a Vent Plug on the Relief Port
A vent plug on the bearing’s relief port is essential to release pressure by flushing out old grease. This step prevents the buildup of pressure that could damage seals or cause grease to bypass the bearing altogether.
3. Avoid Contaminants
When loading grease into the grease gun, take care not to introduce contaminants. Contaminated grease can lead to premature bearing failure and reduced machinery efficiency. Ensure the grease gun and cartridges are clean before use.
4. Pump a Small Amount Before Dispensing
Before dispensing grease, pump a small amount and wipe the nozzle with a clean rag. This step ensures any contaminants or old grease are removed from the nozzle, preventing them from entering the bearing.
5. Cover the Nozzle When Not in Use
Always place a cover or cap on the grease gun nozzle when not in use. This practice keeps the nozzle clean and prevents contaminants from entering the grease gun.
6. Properly Label Grease Guns and Greases
Labeling grease guns and greases is crucial to ensure the correct grease is used for specific bearings. Mixing greases can cause incompatibility issues and lead to bearing failure. Use colored labels, adhesive dots, or paint markers to identify lubrication points and the corresponding grease.
7. Use the Correct Grease
Applying the wrong grease can quickly cause bearing failure due to incompatibility. Each lubrication point should be identified with the appropriate grease type. Ensure that only the specified grease is used for each bearing.
8. Store Grease Guns and Grease Properly
Store grease guns and greases in a cool, dry area to maintain their effectiveness. If grease cartridges are inside the grease gun, store them horizontally to relieve pressure on the grease, preventing leaks and degradation.
9. Calibrate Grease Guns Regularly
Regular calibration of grease guns ensures the proper delivery volume of grease. Inaccurate grease delivery can lead to insufficient or excessive lubrication, both of which can harm bearings and machinery.
10. Wear Appropriate PPE
Personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential when performing lubrication tasks. Wear gloves, safety glasses, and any other necessary PPE to protect yourself from potential hazards associated with manual greasing.
Choose Fluid Solutions for Your Lubrication Needs
As a leading grease supplier in the Philippines, Fluid Solutions offers a wide range of lubrication solutions to meet your business needs. Our product range includes high-temperature greases, multipurpose and extreme pressure greases, gear coupling greases, hydraulic oils, slideways oils, gear oils, synthetic lubricants, and compressor oils.
Contact Fluid Solutions today at (02) 8370 5928 / (0917) 894 9156 or via email at inquiry@fluidsolutions.com.ph for expert advice and tailored solutions. Our team is dedicated to providing the best lubrication products and services to ensure the longevity and efficiency of your industrial machinery.
