Grease Nipples (Grease Fittings) - Professional Lubrication Components

Grease nipples are essential components in machinery maintenance, providing reliable lubrication access points to ensure long-lasting equipment performance. Also called Zerk fittings, grease fittings, or Alemite fittings, these mechanical components enable controlled injection of lubricants into machinery bearings and moving parts. Each features a spring-loaded ball check valve that opens under pressure for grease injection, then automatically closes to prevent contamination and leakage.
Product Types & Specifications
Type
Design Features
Typical Applications
Flow Rate
Key Advantages
Conical Head
Tapered design, universal grease gun compatibility
Automotive, agricultural, light industrial
Standard
Universal compatibility, easy maintenance, cost-effective
Button Head
Larger head, increased internal diameter
Heavy industrial, high-pressure systems
High volume
Superior flow rates, enhanced durability, confined space access
Flush Type
Low-profile, flush with mounting surface
Mobile equipment, high-traffic areas
Standard
Impact protection, aesthetic appeal, prevents accidental activation
Materials & Performance
Material
Performance Characteristics
Corrosion Resistance
Best Applications
Operating Temperature
Zinc-Plated Steel
Economical, good strength
Standard
General industrial applications
-40°F to +200°F (-40°C to +93°C)
316 Stainless Steel
Superior durability, high temperature
Excellent
Harsh environments, food-grade applications
-320°F to +800°F (-196°C to +427°C)
Brass
Non-magnetic, excellent machinability
Good
Precision equipment, non-magnetic requirements
-65°F to +400°F (-54°C to +204°C)
Thread Standards & Angular Configurations
Specification
Details
Metric Threading
M6×1.0, M8×1.25, M10×1.5; DIN 71412 compliant
Imperial Threading
1/4″-28 UNF, 1/8″-27 NPT; SAE J534 specification
BSP Threading
British Standard Pipe – parallel and tapered variants
Angular Configuration
Application Scenario
Straight (0°)
Standard vertical installation, open access
45° Angle
Moderate space constraints
90° Angle
Tight spaces, horizontal mounting
Selection Guide
Operating Pressure Low (0-500 PSI): Automotive applications Medium (500-2000 PSI): Industrial machinery High (2000+ PSI): Hydraulic systems
Head Type Selection Conical: Universal applications, standard flow Button: High-volume lubrication, heavy equipment Flush: Mobile equipment, impact-prone areas
Material Selection Zinc-Plated Steel: Standard environments, budget-conscious Stainless Steel: Corrosive environments, food processing Brass: Non-magnetic requirements, precision applications
Angular Requirements Straight: Open access areas 45°: Moderate space constraints 90°: Tight spaces, horizontal mounting
Typical Applications Automotive Industry: Drive shafts, universal joints, suspension ball joints, steering linkages Agricultural Equipment: Tractors, harvesters, tillage tools, irrigation systems Industrial Manufacturing: Conveyor systems, production machinery, material handling equipment Construction & Heavy Equipment: Excavators, bulldozers, cranes, concrete equipment
FAQ
What is a grease nipple?
A grease nipple is a small fitting that allows grease to be injected into bearings and other moving parts through a grease gun. It provides a secure point for lubrication and helps keep grease inside the system.
What are grease nipples used for?
Grease nipples are used to make lubrication easier, cleaner, and more precise in machinery. They are commonly installed on bearings, joints, shafts, and other points that need regular greasing.
What types of grease nipples are available?
Common types include straight, angled, 45-degree, 90-degree, flush, and button head grease nipples. Each type is designed for different space requirements, access conditions, and lubrication needs.
How do I choose the right grease nipple?
You should choose based on thread size, fitting style, access space, operating pressure, and the type of machine you are servicing. The right nipple should match both the lubrication point and the grease gun coupler.
Are grease nipples suitable for heavy-duty equipment?
Yes, many grease nipples are designed for demanding environments such as construction, mining, agriculture, and industrial machinery. Button head and angled styles are often used where high-volume or hard-to-reach lubrication is needed.
What is the difference between a straight and angled grease nipple?
A straight grease nipple is aligned directly with the lubrication point, while an angled nipple is bent to improve access in tight or awkward spaces. Angled types are useful where a straight coupler cannot reach easily.
What is a button head grease nipple?
A button head grease nipple has a flat, rounded head that allows higher grease volume and a secure connection with a matching coupler. It is often used in heavy-duty applications that require frequent lubrication.
How do I install a grease nipple?
Installation usually involves selecting the correct thread size, cleaning the port, and tightening the fitting securely into place. Proper installation helps prevent leaks and ensures the nipple stays in position during use.
How should grease nipples be maintained?
Grease nipples should be checked regularly for clogging, wear, corrosion, or damage. Keeping them clean and replacing worn fittings helps maintain smooth grease flow and protect equipment.
Why are grease nipples important?
Grease nipples are important because they make lubrication fast, controlled, and reliable. They help reduce wear, prevent contamination, and extend the life of machine components.
Technical Specifications Summary
Parameter
Range/Options
Pressure Rating
Up to 5,000 PSI (varies by model)
Thread Types
Metric, Imperial, BSP
Head Types
Conical, Button, Flush
Angular Options
0°, 45°, 90°
Materials
Zinc-plated steel, Stainless steel, Brass

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Grease Nipple Size Reference Chart

Thread Size	Pitch	Hex Wrench Size	Overall Length (Straight)	Style Options
M5	0.8 mm	7 mm	14-16 mm	Straight, 45°, 90°
M6	1.0 mm	8 mm	16-18 mm	Straight, 45°, 90°
M8	1.0 mm	10 mm	18-22 mm	Straight, 45°, 90°, Low-Profile
M10	1.0 mm	12 mm	20-25 mm	Straight, 45°, 90°, Extended
M12	1.5 mm	14 mm	25-30 mm	Straight, 45°
1/8 NPT	27 TPI	7/16″	0.75-1.0″	Straight, 45°, 90°, Low-Profile
1/4-28 UNF	28 TPI	7/16″	~0.8″	Straight, 45°, 90°