Air Grease Guns

About Air Grease Guns

Air grease guns are pneumatic tools designed to deliver lubricating grease to machinery, vehicles, and equipment quickly and efficiently. Unlike manual grease guns that require physical pumping, air-operated grease guns are powered by compressed air, making them ideal for high-volume lubrication tasks in busy workshops, garages, and industrial settings. These professional-grade tools significantly reduce operator fatigue whilst delivering consistent, controlled grease application at high pressure, typically between 6,000 and 10,000 PSI.

Air grease guns are available in various configurations, including pistol grip models for easy handling and continuous flow designs for uninterrupted operation. Most models accept standard grease cartridges (typically 400g), whilst some professional versions feature bulk fill hoppers for extended use. The pneumatic operation provides smooth, steady grease delivery, making these tools particularly valuable for workshops and service centres where multiple greasing points need regular maintenance. Leading brands such as Sealey, Draper, and Lumatic manufacture reliable air grease guns that withstand the demands of daily professional use.

When connected to a workshop air compressor system (typically requiring 90 PSI operating pressure), these tools transform routine lubrication tasks from physically demanding work into quick, efficient operations. The consistent pressure delivery ensures proper lubrication of bearings, joints, and moving parts, helping to prevent premature wear and costly machinery downtime.

Jargon Buster

PSI (Pounds per Square Inch)

The measurement of pressure at which grease is delivered. Air grease guns typically operate at 90 PSI input pressure and deliver grease at much higher pressures, usually between 6,000-10,000 PSI.

CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute)

The volume of air consumed by the tool during operation. Most air grease guns have modest CFM requirements, typically between 4-6 CFM, making them suitable for standard workshop compressors.

Continuous Flow

A design feature allowing uninterrupted grease delivery without needing to release and re-apply pressure, ideal for high-volume lubrication tasks.

Bulk Fill

The capability to load grease directly into the gun's reservoir rather than using pre-packaged cartridges, offering cost savings for frequent users.

Coupler/Quick Connect

The fitting that attaches the air hose to the grease gun, allowing rapid connection and disconnection from your air line system.

Delivery Hose

The flexible hose extending from the gun body to the grease nozzle, allowing access to awkward or recessed greasing points.

Who Uses Air Grease Guns?

• Vehicle Mechanics and Auto Electricians - servicing suspension components, steering linkages, and chassis grease points on cars, vans, and light commercial vehicles
• HGV and Plant Mechanics - maintaining heavy goods vehicles, agricultural machinery, and construction equipment with multiple greasing points
• Plant Hire Companies - conducting routine maintenance on excavators, telehandlers, and other heavy plant equipment
• Fleet Maintenance Technicians - servicing commercial vehicle fleets efficiently across multiple greasing schedules
• Agricultural Engineers - lubricating tractors, harvesters, and farm machinery with numerous moving parts
• Industrial Maintenance Teams - maintaining factory machinery, conveyor systems, and production line equipment
• MOT Testing Stations - ensuring vehicles meet roadworthiness standards through proper lubrication
• Railway Workshop Technicians - servicing rolling stock and trackside equipment
• Marine Engineers - maintaining boats, ships, and harbour equipment exposed to harsh conditions

How to Choose the Right Air Grease Guns

Compressor Compatibility: Check your air compressor's CFM output and pressure capacity. Most air grease guns require 90 PSI operating pressure and 4-6 CFM. Ensure your compressor can maintain these specifications, particularly if running multiple air tools simultaneously.

Loading Method: Decide between cartridge-fed models (accepting standard 400g grease cartridges for convenience) and bulk-fill designs (allowing direct loading from larger grease containers for economy). High-volume users often prefer bulk-fill systems to reduce consumable costs.

Trigger Type: Pistol grip designs offer comfortable one-handed operation and precise control, whilst continuous flow models provide uninterrupted delivery for faster greasing of multiple points. Consider the typical duration of your lubrication tasks when choosing.

Hose Length and Flexibility: Longer delivery hoses (typically 300-600mm) provide better access to recessed or awkward greasing points on large machinery. Flexible hoses that resist kinking are essential for reliable operation in busy workshop environments.

Build Quality and Materials: Professional-grade models from brands like Sealey, Draper, and Lumatic feature robust construction with metal components rather than plastic, ensuring longevity under daily workshop use. Check for sealed mechanisms that prevent grease contamination.

Pressure Rating: Higher delivery pressures (8,000-10,000 PSI) ensure grease penetrates seized nipples and reaches bearings through long feed lines. Commercial applications typically require guns delivering at least 6,000 PSI.

Fittings and Nozzles: Verify the gun accepts standard grease nipple fittings common in UK workshops. Some models include multiple nozzle types for different applications, adding versatility to your toolkit.

Popular Accessories

• Grease Cartridges - Standard 400g cartridges in various formulations including multi-purpose lithium grease, high-temperature grease, and marine-grade options
• Air Hose and Fittings - Quality pneumatic hoses with appropriate quick-release couplers rated for workshop air systems
• Grease Nipple Sets - Replacement and conversion nipples in various thread sizes and angles (straight, 45°, 90°)
• Extension Hoses - Additional length flexible hoses for reaching difficult access points on large machinery
• Air Line Lubricators - In-line lubricators and filters to protect pneumatic tools and ensure consistent performance
• Nozzle Adaptors - Various fittings for different grease point configurations and applications
• Bulk Grease Containers - Larger tubs and drums of grease for refilling bulk-fill systems economically
• Grease Gun Holders - Wall-mounted or mobile storage solutions keeping tools organised and accessible
• Air Pressure Regulators - Dial gauges allowing precise pressure adjustment for different applications

Safety Information

Personal Protective Equipment: Always wear safety glasses or goggles when operating air grease guns, as high-pressure grease can cause serious eye injuries. Disposable gloves protect skin from prolonged grease contact, which may cause dermatitis. Ensure adequate workshop ventilation when greasing equipment.

Pressure Hazards: Never point an air grease gun at yourself or others. The extremely high pressures (6,000+ PSI) can inject grease under the skin, causing severe tissue damage requiring immediate medical attention. Always relieve system pressure before disconnecting hoses or changing cartridges.

Equipment Inspection: Regularly inspect hoses, fittings, and seals for wear, cracks, or damage. Damaged components can fail under pressure, creating hazardous situations. Replace worn parts immediately and never exceed the manufacturer's specified operating pressure.

COSHH Compliance: Consult safety data sheets for the specific greases being used. Some specialised lubricants may contain hazardous substances requiring additional precautions. Dispose of used grease cartridges and contaminated materials in accordance with local environmental regulations.

Secure Connections: Ensure all air line connections are properly secured before pressurising the system. Loose fittings can whip dangerously when under pressure. Follow HSE guidelines for compressed air safety in workshop environments.

Frequently Asked Questions

What air compressor size do I need for an air grease gun?

Most air grease guns require 90 PSI operating pressure with 4-6 CFM air consumption. A standard 50-litre workshop compressor with 2-3 HP motor easily handles these requirements. For continuous use or running multiple air tools, consider a larger 100-litre compressor with higher CFM output to maintain consistent pressure.

Can I use any type of grease in an air grease gun?

Air grease guns work with most standard greases including lithium-based multi-purpose, high-temperature, and marine formulations. However, very thick or cold grease may not flow properly. Always use grease appropriate for your application and ensure it's at a workable temperature. Avoid mixing different grease types in the same gun without thorough cleaning.

Why won't my air grease gun deliver grease?

Common causes include insufficient air pressure (check your compressor delivers 90 PSI), air in the grease chamber (bleed air by pumping without a nozzle attached), blocked nozzles (clean or replace), seized grease nipples on equipment (may require manual cleaning), or empty/improperly loaded cartridges. Ensure cartridges are installed with seals removed and followers properly engaged.

How often should I lubricate my equipment with a grease gun?

Lubrication frequency depends on the equipment type and operating conditions. Agricultural machinery and construction plant typically require greasing every 8-10 operating hours or daily during heavy use. Vehicle suspension components may need greasing every 5,000-10,000 miles. Always consult manufacturer service schedules, and increase frequency in dusty, wet, or high-load conditions.

Are air grease guns better than manual or battery-powered versions?

Air grease guns excel in workshops with existing compressed air systems, offering continuous operation without batteries or manual pumping. They're faster and less fatiguing for high-volume work than manual guns, and more economical than battery versions for constant use. However, they lack the portability of battery-powered models and require air line infrastructure, making them best suited to fixed workshop locations rather than mobile servicing.