What This Page Covers
This guide owns one question: once the metering architecture of a central lubrication system is fixed, how do you choose the pump that feeds it? The divider block, the injectors, or the two main lines decide what the pump must deliver, and in what rhythm.
Each system type imposes different demands on pressure, delivery rate, control, and monitoring.
Declared Approach
| System types | Progressive divider, single-line injector, and dual-line architectures, each with its own pump duties. |
| Pump attributes | Maximum working pressure, nominal delivery rate, reservoir capacity, low-level sensing, pressure switch, controller integration. |
| Reservoir sizing | Derived from point count, shot volume, and cycle rate; autonomy equals usable volume divided by hourly consumption. |
| Monitoring | Progressive systems support central fault detection at the pump; injector systems need point-level sensors. |
| Lubricants | Oil viscosity grades and grease consistency grades, matched to pump rating and line length. |
Progressive Systems and Their Pumps
In a progressive system the pump feeds one divider block whose pistons sequence one after another. If any point blocks, the whole rhythm stops, and the pump can sense the stall through a pressure switch or a proximity sensor.
The pump must provide enough pressure to push lubricant through the divider and out to the farthest point, plus line losses and a cold-start margin. It must also complete each divider cycle in a sensible time and accept the divider feedback signal.
A typical match is an electric lubrication pump station driving a divider block, or a dedicated automatic lubrication pump with progressive divider. Confirm at ordering whether the pump’s controller accepts a divider cycle switch.
Single-Line Injector Systems
In a single-line injector system the pump charges one supply line. Each injector meters its own shot when the line reaches its set pressure, then the system vents and the injectors reset. The pump must reach the injector set pressure reliably and release pressure quickly enough for every injector to reset.
Monitoring is the trade-off. Because injectors operate independently, a blocked point does not stop the line, so point-level monitoring needs sensors at the injectors.
Terminology honesty matters here. “Single-line” describes the supply arrangement; “progressive” describes the divider operation. They are not the same thing, and suppliers sometimes use the terms loosely. Confirm what your supplier means before ordering either.
Dual-Line Systems
Dual-line systems run two main lines. Pressure alternates between them: one line pressurizes and feeds its injectors while the other vents back to reservoir, then a changeover valve swaps the roles. The pump needs a pressure source, a changeover valve, and a monitoring path for both lines.
This architecture suits many lubrication points over long runs because each line can carry a large bank of injectors. The trade-off is complexity. The pump selection must account for the changeover valve, the pressure switches, and the controller logic.
For dual-line, bring the total point count, the longest run, and the injector bank sizes to the order conversation.
Sizing Inputs to Bring to an Order
Count the points. Multiply by the shot volume each point receives. Multiply by the cycles per hour. Divide the usable reservoir volume by hourly consumption to get hours of autonomy.
Pressure sizing starts with the pressure required at the farthest metering device. Add line losses along the run. Add a cold-start margin. The pump’s maximum working pressure must exceed that total, and confirm it is continuous, not a peak figure.
Then list the control attributes: low-level sensing, pressure switch, and controller or timer integration. A DC-220S pump family unit may suit smaller reservoir demands, but verify the delivery rate against your cycle time. When the input list is complete, contact our team for a quotation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which pump should I choose for a progressive system?
Choose a pump that reaches divider pressure at the farthest point and accepts divider feedback. Confirm at ordering that its controller reads a cycle switch or pressure switch.
Is single-line the same as progressive?
No, single-line describes the supply arrangement; progressive describes how the divider meters. Suppliers use these terms loosely, so confirm the actual architecture before ordering.
Can one pump serve two system types?
Sometimes, if the pressure and delivery ratings cover both duty cycles. Confirm at ordering whether the controller supports both feedback styles.
How much pressure is needed?
Take the pressure at the farthest metering device, add line losses, then add a cold-start margin. The pump’s maximum working pressure must exceed that sum.
How do I size the reservoir?
Multiply point count by shot volume by cycles per hour. Divide usable volume by that figure to find hours of autonomy.
Is low-level monitoring included?
Often it is optional, available as visual or electrical sensing. Confirm at ordering which type your controller accepts and how it alarms.
Can the pump detect a blocked point?
In progressive systems, yes, central detection works because a block stops the divider sequence. Injector systems need point-level sensors instead.
Can one pump handle both oil and grease?
Only if the unit is rated for both lubricant types and relevant viscosity grades. Confirm at ordering before assuming interchangeability.
What should I state when ordering?
State the system architecture, point count, shot volume, cycle rate, longest run, lubricant type and viscosity grade, and monitoring needs. Also request a quotation for the matched pump.
How do I get specifications and a quotation?
IsoHiTech Lubrication Systems, founded in 2023, engineering since 2006, builds and supports every unit. Email inquiry@isohitech.com for specifications and a quotation.
