Lubrication pumps are an integral part of any lubrication system. Their primary purpose is to feed oil or grease into a tubing system, which then disperses the oil or grease into specific lubrication points in a piece of equipment.
Although lubrication pumps can be classified by the type of lubricant they use, most are categorized by how they operate, including manually, electrically, pneumatically, and hydraulically. In this post, we’ll specifically cover the differences between manual and electric pumps.
Manual Lubrication Pumps
A manual pump is specifically designed to work in a manual lubrication system. In this type of system, you press the handle down on the manual pump, which then carries lubricant from the reservoir to the desired friction points. Although these pumps are flexible, in that they allow you to choose when to lubricate, they do not guarantee that the right amount of oil or grease hits the right friction points at the right time. Additionally, manual lubrication pumps cannot be engaged unless the machine is shut down.
Electric Lubrication Pumps
An electric (motor-driven) pump is typically used in an automatic lubrication system. These pumps operate according to preset parameters established by machinists. Providing consistent and precise amounts of lubrication without requiring supervision, electric lubrication pumps can be a safer way of supplying lubrication to friction points because machines do not need to be shut down. Electric pumps are also especially beneficial because it’s better to apply lubrication while machinery is moving to ensure bearings and other friction points are evenly and adequately lubricated.
Integration
You should only use manual pumps in manual lubrication systems and electric pumps in automatic lubrication systems.
Find the Right Lubrication Pump Today
DropsA is a globally trusted supplier and manufacturer of custom automatic lubrication systems, pumps, and other lubrication products. You can learn more about our complete line of lubrication pumps here. If you need help selecting the right type of pump for your application, don’t hesitate to contact us.