A grease nipple may be small, but it plays a big role in machinery and heavy industry equipment lubrication. It provides the connection point for grease to be delivered under pressure into a bearing or moving part. Choosing the wrong grease nipple or a faulty grease fitting can lead to inadequate lubrication, contamination, and premature wear. Selecting a correct and quality component ensures that grease flows exactly where it’s needed, protecting moving parts and reducing downtime.
This guide explains what to look for when selecting a grease nipple, and how related lubrication choices, such as the right grease fitting or grease gun, can make all the difference.
Identify the Thread Type and Size
Grease nipples come in different thread types and sizes. Getting this wrong can cause damage or lead to leaks. Common thread standards include:
- Metric – Common in European and modern machinery.
- BSP (British Standard Pipe) – Widely used in UK-built machines and hydraulic systems.
- NPT (National Pipe Thread) – Found on equipment manufactured in North America, especially from the USA
If you’re unsure, check your machinery manual or use a thread gauge. A grease nipple with the correct thread will fit securely and allow clean, leak-free lubrication.
Select the Right Angle
The angle of the grease nipple affects how easy it is to connect your grease gun:
- Straight grease nipples – Best for open, accessible lubrication points.
- 45° grease nipples – Useful for moderately restricted spaces.
- 90° grease nipples – Ideal for tight or enclosed areas.
Some equipment and machinery utilise a combination of angles, so inspect all lubrication points before selecting the appropriate grease fittings.
Choose the Best Material
The operating environment should guide your material choice:
- Steel – Strong and cost-effective for most general machinery lubrication.
- Stainless steel – Corrosion-resistant, perfect for outdoor, marine, or high-moisture conditions.
- Brass – Softer, corrosion-resistant, and used in certain specialist applications.
- Monel® – A nickel-copper alloy known for its excellent corrosion resistance, especially in saltwater and chemical environments.
If you are unsure which material you require for your grease nipple, check out our blog which focuses on the importance of identifying the correct material, here.
Match the Pressure Rating
Grease guns and automatic lubrication systems operate at different pressures. Standard grease fittings handle up to around 10,000 psi, but heavy machinery or industrial lubrication systems may need higher ratings. Using a nipple with too low a pressure rating risks failure or leakage.
Consider the Working Environment
Different sectors have specific demands:
- Agriculture – Requires durable nipples with caps to keep out dirt and moisture.
- Construction – Must handle vibration, impact, and extreme weather.
- Food production – May need stainless steel or food-grade fittings for hygiene compliance.
- Marine – Requires maximum corrosion resistance for saltwater conditions.
- Aerospace – Needs precision fittings that withstand extreme temperatures and vibration while meeting strict safety standards.
Use Protective Caps
A grease nipple works best when it stays clean. Protective caps keep grit, dust, and water out, preventing blockages and protecting both the nipple and the bearing it serves. This small step can extend the life of both your fittings and your machinery.
Keep Spares in Stock
Even the best grease fittings can get damaged during use. Keeping spare grease nipples, along with other lubrication parts, ensures you can replace them quickly and avoid unplanned downtime.
Why the Right Grease Nipple Matters
As identified in a recent study by Shell, poor lubrication is a major cause of machinery breakdowns. A correctly chosen grease nipple, paired with the right grease gun and regular maintenance schedule, ensures effective bearing lubrication and minimises the risk of machine breakdown. This protects your investment, reduces wear, and supports smoother, more reliable operation.
Find out more about Kingfisher (Lubrication) Ltd on their member profile page here
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