What the 345 Is
The 345 is a five-outlet piston distributor and pre-lubrication single-line metering device from the Vogel (SKF Group) Group 340 family. It meters and distributes oil or fluid grease to five separate lubrication points in a centralized lubrication system. Each outlet delivers a fixed metered quantity per cycle, selected by interchangeable metering nipples.
Lincoln, Vogel, and SKF are trademarks of their respective owners.
This is an aftermarket distributor, not manufactured, sponsored, or endorsed by SKF.
345 designations are for cross-reference identification only.
The 345 belongs to a family where the digits identify outlet count: the 342 has 2 outlets, the 343 has 3 outlets, and the 345 has 5 outlets. The oil version carries the 4VS code family, written as 345-4VS. The fluid grease version carries the 5VS code family, written as 345-5VS.
Specifications
| Type | Five-outlet piston distributor, pre-lubrication single-line metering device |
| Family outlets | 342: 2 outlets, 343: 3 outlets, 345: 5 outlets |
| Oil metering per outlet | 0.01, 0.02, 0.03, 0.06, 0.10, or 0.16 cm3 per cycle |
| Fluid grease metering per outlet | 0.03, 0.06, or 0.10 cm3 per cycle |
| Versions | 345-4VS for oil, 345-5VS for fluid grease |
| Main line | 6 mm tubing with double tapered sleeve and socket union |
| Operating pressure | Minimum 12 bar, maximum 45 bar |
| Temperature | -20 to +70 degrees C |
| Oil viscosity | 20 to 2000 mm2/s |
| Grease grades | NLGI 000 and 00 |
| Cycle rate | Maximum 200 cycles per minute |
| Body material | Zinc die-cast |
Reading the Order Code
The 345 order code contains one metering quantity code per outlet position, read left to right. Each of the five outlets can carry a different metering quantity. The first code position corresponds to outlet one, the second to outlet two, and so on through outlet five.
The family digits tell you the outlet count. A 342 order code has two quantity positions, a 343 has three, and a 345 has five. The version code tells you the lubricant type: 4VS for oil, 5VS for fluid grease. Threaded port details vary by order code, so confirm the connection for a specific unit before ordering.
Pre-Lubrication and Post-Lubrication
A pre-lubrication distributor delivers its metered shots during the pump cycle. Bearings receive lubricant before the machine runs, which reduces dry starts. A post-lubrication distributor releases its stored shots after the pump stops and line pressure falls.
The two designs look similar. The system design, not appearance, tells them apart. If the distributor discharges while the pump is running, it is a pre-lubrication unit. If it discharges after the pump stops, it is a post-lubrication unit.
Sizing Metering Quantities
Each outlet is sized independently by selecting a metering nipple with the required quantity per cycle. The oil version offers six quantity options per outlet. The fluid grease version offers three quantity options per outlet.
Total delivery per cycle equals the sum of the five outlet quantities. For example, a unit with five outlets at 0.06 cm3 each delivers 5 times 0.06, which is 0.3 cm3 per cycle. Match each outlet quantity to the bearing requirement at that point.
Related Parts
For system monitoring, see flow monitors compatible with single-line lubrication circuits.
For a supply pump option, see the piston pump used in centralized lubrication systems.
For system design context, see centralized lubrication systems.
To request a quotation, use the quotation form.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the 345 number mean?
The 345 is a five-outlet distributor in the Group 340 family. The digits identify outlet count, not a size or capacity rating.
Can I use oil and grease in the same 345?
No, the oil version and fluid grease version are separate builds. The 345-4VS is for oil and the 345-5VS is for fluid grease.
Can each outlet have a different metering quantity?
Yes, each of the five outlets can carry a different metering quantity. The order code lists one quantity code per outlet position.
What tubing connects to the 345 main line?
The main line connection uses 6 mm tubing with a double tapered sleeve and socket union. Confirm the threaded port details for your specific order code.
What is the maximum cycle rate for the 345?
The maximum cycle rate is 200 cycles per minute. Operating pressure ranges from 12 bar minimum to 45 bar maximum.
What lubricants work with the 345?
Oil viscosity from 20 to 2000 mm2/s is acceptable for the oil version. Fluid grease grades NLGI 000 and 00 work with the grease version.
Is the 345 a pre-lubrication or post-lubrication distributor?
The 345 is a pre-lubrication single-line metering device. It delivers metered shots during the pump cycle before the machine runs.
How do I calculate total delivery per cycle?
Add the five outlet quantities together. Five outlets at 0.06 cm3 each deliver 0.3 cm3 per cycle.
What body material is used for the 345?
The body is zinc die-cast. The operating temperature range is -20 to +70 degrees C.
How do I order or get support?
IsoHiTech Lubrication Systems, founded in 2023, engineering since 2006, builds and supports every unit. Email inquiry@isohitech.com for specifications and a quotation.
You can also request pricing through the quotation form. Include your outlet count and metering quantities so a support engineer can confirm the build.
