Grease guns are one of the main tools in your lubrication arsenal, and they’re more complex than you might think. There are many types of grease guns, with different parts, and all of them need to be used correctly for maximum performance. In this blog, the LH Travis team will take a deep dive into everything you need to know about grease guns.
Various Types of Grease Guns
Generally speaking, grease guns fall into one of two categories: manual or automatic.
Manual grease guns are those that are operated by squeezing a lever or trigger to distribute lubricants. Manual grease guns are the most economical option, and are ideal for low-volume operations or those that require precise grease application. These will use either a lever handle or a pistol grip.
Automatic grease guns use a power source to pump lubricant more efficiently and with less effort than manual guns. These are more expensive and less precise, but they are ideal for high volume applications. There are two main types of automatic grease gun: pneumatic and battery powered.
Grease Gun Parts and Accessories
There are various parts and accessories for grease guns, including:
- Flexible hoses and fixed tubes through which lubricant flows
- Grease gun couplers, or tips, are fittings that go on the end of the tube or hose and connect it to the grease gun
- Adapters allow you to provide a better orientation or fit for your application
- Other accessories such as barrels, chargers, sleeves, and more
Grease Gun Tips
Want to get the most of your grease gun? Here are some tips:
- Always load your gun correctly according to manufacturer instructions; this can be via a canister, suction, or a bulk load, depending on your gun and accessories.
- Never point a grease gun at yourself or others
- Always release pressure before disconnecting hoses or fittings
- Always wear required PPE when using grease guns
- Use steady pressure when applying lubricant
- Clean your grease gun regularly to prevent clogs and other issues
LH Travis Are Your Grease Gun Pros
Grease guns are one of the main tools to provide proper lubrication to key equipment, and it’s important to know how to use them correctly. Still have questions? Contact LH Travis to speak to our specialists!
