A grease gun is a common tool used to apply lubricant to mechanical equipment and machinery. Grease guns allow you to pump grease directly into grease fittings to lubricate parts. While some grease guns need to be manually loaded with grease each time, cartridge-loaded grease guns offer the convenience of pre-filled grease cartridges that can quickly be loaded into the gun.
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What is a Grease Gun?
A grease gun is a hand-held tool used to apply lubricant known as grease. Grease is a thick, oil-based substance used to lubricate mechanical parts and prevent corrosion. The grease gun uses pressure to force grease through a hose and nozzle into a grease fitting or zerk fitting on the equipment being lubricated.
There are two main types of grease guns:
- Manual grease guns – Require the user to pump a handle to build pressure and force grease through the nozzle. Grease must be manually loaded into the barrel or reservoir.
- Cartridge grease guns – Use pre-filled grease cartridges that thread into the gun. Pulling the trigger releases pressure inside the gun to force grease out.
Cartridge grease guns are popular for their speed and convenience compared to manual loading. Once the cartridge is threaded into place, the gun is ready to use.
Types of Grease Cartridges
Grease cartridges are available in different sizes to fit specific grease gun models. Here are some of the most common grease cartridge sizes:
- 14 oz cartridge – The most popular size, fits most standard grease guns.
- 3 oz cartridge – Smaller size used for low volume greasing jobs.
- 5 lb cartridge – Large heavy-duty cartridges for high volume greasing needs.
- 12 oz cartridge – Compatible with some pistol grip style grease guns.
It’s important to verify which cartridge size fits your particular grease gun model before purchasing. Many grease guns are designed to only fit one or two cartridge sizes.
Loading a Grease Gun with a Cartridge
Follow these steps to load a cartridge-style grease gun:
- Inspect grease fittings – Look over all grease fittings and zerk fittings you plan to lubricate. Make sure they are clean and undamaged. Clean any dirty fittings and replace damaged ones.
- Select appropriate grease – Choose a grease with the proper thickness and lubricating properties for the equipment and expected operating conditions.
- Check grease gun compatibility – Verify the cartridge size matches your particular grease gun model.
- Remove old cartridge – If there is a spent cartridge already in the gun, rotate the handle to eject it from the barrel.
- Insert new cartridge – Thread the new, filled grease cartridge into the gun’s barrel. Turn clockwise until tight.
- Prime the grease gun – Pump the grease gun handle 10-20 times to build initial pressure.
- Open vent valve – Make sure the vent valve or bleeder valve on the grease gun is open so air can escape.
- Connect grease nozzle – Securely connect the grease nozzle/hose assembly to the gun’s head.
Once loaded and primed, gently press the grease gun’s trigger to release grease. Always aim the nozzle at the grease fitting to avoid accidentally spraying grease. Use smooth strokes when pumping the handle to build pressure. The cartridge is fully depleted when the gun handle moves freely with no resistance or pressure.
Tips for Using a Grease Gun
Here are some useful tips to get the most out of a cartridge-loaded grease gun:
- Don’t overfill grease fittings – This can damage seals. Go slowly and watch for grease leaking out around the fitting.
- Store extra cartridges properly – Leave in packaging and store out of direct sunlight and in moderate temperatures.
- Bleed air after changing cartridges – Air trapped in the grease gun can cause the grease to sputter out.
- Wipe fittings clean afterwards – Excess grease outside the fitting attracts contaminants.
- Follow manufacturer maintenance tips – Proper cleaning and storage will prolong the grease gun’s life.
- Change nozzle tips for better access – Use angled nozzles to reach tight grease fittings.
- Keep most used grease handy – Quickly find the cartridges you use most right in your lubrication area.
- Recycle empty cartridges – Many retailers offer recycling programs for used grease cartridges.
Troubleshooting Grease Gun Issues
Some common grease gun problems and solutions include:
| Issue | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Grease leaking around cartridge | Worn barrel nut/seals | Replace barrel nut and seals |
| Grease leaks from pump | Damaged plunger cups | Replace plunger head assembly |
| Gun won’t build pressure | Bent/worn plunger rod | Straighten or replace rod |
| No grease flow | Clogged grease nozzle | Clean nozzle opening |
Be sure to follow all manufacturer guidelines and safety procedures when troubleshooting a grease gun. Wear work gloves and eye protection when disassembling grease guns for repair.
Safety Tips for Grease Guns
Grease guns can produce pressures over 7,000 PSI, so proper handling is important. Here are some key safety precautions:
- Wear eye protection – Grease under pressure can spray into eyes.
- Point nozzle only at fitting – Never at yourself or others.
- Ensure a proper grip – Keep the grease gun firmly controlled when operating.
- Stand back from fittings – Grease spraying out under pressure can cause injuries.
- Depressurize when not in use – This prevents accidental discharge.
- Check hoses for damage – Cracked or damaged hoses can leak grease.
Also avoid prolonged skin contact with grease products, as certain greases may cause irritation. It’s also a good idea to wash your hands after completing grease applications.
Benefits of Using a Grease Cartridge
Grease cartridges offer several advantages over manually filling a grease gun:
- Speed – Cartridges load much faster than manual pumping in grease from a drum.
- Less mess – Pre-filled cartridges minimize spills and wasted grease during loading.
- Convenience – Technicians can carry loaded cartridges for quick lubrication on the go.
- Efficiency – More time lubricating equipment versus refilling grease guns manually.
- Cleanliness – Sealed cartridges keep grease free of contaminants.
The improved lubrication efficiency lets maintenance teams spend less time handling grease and more time servicing equipment. This can significantly improve productivity for industrial facilities.
Conclusion
Cartridge-style grease guns provide a cleaner, faster way to get machines properly lubricated. Just thread in a pre-filled cartridge, prime the gun, and you’re ready to start greasing. When performing maintenance and lubrication tasks, be sure to select the appropriate grease for the equipment and always adhere to proper safety procedures.
Following the steps to properly load cartridges into grease guns will allow you to maximize the advantages of cartridge-fed systems. Proper lubrication helps industrial equipment operate safely and reliably while reducing wear and tear on components. Taking a few moments to correctly load and operate a grease gun can ultimately save hours of downtime and costly repairs.
With the convenience of modern grease cartridge systems, technicians no longer need to manually pump grease or improperly lubricate components. A properly loaded grease gun is a vital tool for completing lubrication tasks quickly, cleanly, and safely.