What thread has a grease nipple?

Grease nipples are undoubtedly one of those small yet impactful components that play a crucial role in machinery maintenance. Whether it’s thread lubricants or drive-in grease nipples, their simplicity makes them incredibly effective at providing precise lubrication where it’s needed most. This not only helps keep countless machines and vehicles running smoothly but also proves essential in industries like construction and agriculture. Given their frequent use, grease nipples inevitably wear out over time, making it necessary to replace them occasionally.

Installing a drive-in grease nipple typically requires a bit of force, often achieved with a hammer. Many grease nipples also feature a threaded design, which is particularly useful when replacing them. If you’re unsure about the thread type while shopping for a new grease nipple, don’t worry—this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to ensure you choose the right one.

Why Threads Matter on Grease Nipples

Grease nipples themselves require maintenance, so having a secure thread ensures they stay in place during operation. The presence of threads allows for easy removal and reinstallation whenever cleaning or replacement becomes necessary. However, identifying the correct thread type can sometimes be challenging, especially if you're unfamiliar with the specifics. Our tips below will help you navigate this process effectively.

Thread Types Depend on the Nipple Design

Unfortunately, there isn't a universal standard for grease nipple threads, meaning different designs correspond to various thread specifications. To start, determining the exact type of grease nipple you have is key because it gives you valuable clues about its compatibility.

Common Types of Grease Nipples

There are numerous styles available, but three types stand out due to their prevalence:

• Cone grease nipples conforming to DIN 71412
• Flat grease nipples following DIN 3404 guidelines
• Funnel grease nipples adhering to DIN 3405 standards

Among these, cone grease nipples, identified by their rounded heads, remain the most widely used. Meanwhile, flat grease nipples exhibit a flattened head, whereas funnel grease nipples boast a funnel-shaped design. While visual distinctions exist between these types, understanding how they relate to threading remains vital.

Cylindrical vs. Conical Threads

Based on the nipple type, you can infer whether the thread is cylindrical or conical. Cone grease nipples generally feature a conical or tapered thread, while flat and funnel grease nipples possess a cylindrical thread. This distinction narrows down your search significantly.

Most Common Threads Used in Germany

Even within Germany, both metric and imperial threads appear frequently. Knowing both dimensions enables accurate identification of the grease nipple thread, provided the component originates domestically. Globally, though, things grow more complex, requiring broader knowledge.

Metric Threads

Metric grease nipples commonly utilize two main thread types, depending on whether they're conical or cylindrical.

Conical Metric Thread

This thread follows the DIN 158 standard, featuring a flank angle of 60° and a 1:16 taper. Its designation includes the letter M, followed by the nominal diameter and pitch, along with "keg." For instance, M 6x1.0 keg.

Metric Fine Thread

Cylindrical grease nipples often incorporate metric fine threads (MF), characterized by a 60° flank angle. Similar to conical threads, their designation specifies nominal diameter and pitch.

Imperial Threads

Imperial grease nipple threads resemble familiar pipe threads.

BSP Cylindrical Pipe Thread

BSP threads represent cylindrical Whitworth pipe threads, known as British Standard Pipe Parallel (BSPP) in the UK. Their designation combines the letters BSP and the nominal diameter in inches.

R Conical Pipe Thread

R threads denote another common Whitworth conical pipe thread, British Standard Pipe Tapered (BSPT). These are marked by the letter R followed by the outside diameter in inches.

International Variations

Beyond the four dominant thread types found in Germany, several international alternatives exist, particularly relevant when dealing with U.S.-made components. For instance, American Unified National Fine (UNF) and Unified National Extra Fine (UNEF) fine threads crop up regularly. You might also stumble upon National Pipe Taper Fuel (NPTF) and Pipe Thread Fuel (PTF) threads, with 1/8" NPT being the most typical grease nipple size. Another lesser-known yet prevalent option is the SAE-LT thread from the Society of Automotive Engineers.

Finding the Right Grease Nipple Thread Tap

To ascertain which thread your grease nipple employs and what corresponding tap you'll need, follow these steps:

1. Determine if the thread is conical or cylindrical.
2. Compare the pitch against a template or known screws to identify it.
3. Measure the external diameter.

These details should guide you toward the correct thread selection.

For regular users, carrying an identification aid could prove invaluable. This tool consists of a rectangular card displaying threads from all major standards and sizes, allowing you to test-fit the grease nipple. Alternatively, consider self-tapping grease nipples that generate their own thread during installation—these always fit perfectly. Should you encounter any confusion, feel free to reach out to us; we specialize in thread taps and offer expert advice regarding grease nipple threads.

At BAER Online Shop, you’ll find a perfect match for every grease nipple thread. Browse our selection today!