What thread has a grease nipple?

Grease nipples are often overlooked, but they play a crucial role in the smooth operation of many machines and vehicles. These small components have a big impact, especially when it comes to lubrication. Whether you're using thread lubricants or drive-in grease nipples, their simple yet effective design allows for precise and efficient lubrication at the right spot. This makes them essential in industries like construction, agriculture, and manufacturing.

Drive-in grease nipples are typically installed with a hammer and some force, making them easy to mount. However, most of them also feature a threaded connection. This is important because if you ever need to replace a grease nipple, knowing the correct thread type will save you time and prevent damage. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about grease nipple threads and how to find the right tap for your application.

The Purpose of Threads on Grease Nipples

Like any other mechanical component, grease nipples require occasional maintenance. They’re exposed to dirt, moisture, and harsh environments, which means they may need cleaning or replacement over time. The thread on the grease nipple plays a key role here—it ensures a secure fit and allows for easy removal and reinstallation. Without the thread, replacing or maintaining these parts would be much more complicated.

If you're unsure about the thread size or type, it can lead to frustration. That’s why it's important to understand the different types of threads and how they vary based on the grease nipple model.

Thread Types Vary by Grease Nipple Design

Not all grease nipples are created equal, and neither are their threads. While there is no universal standard, certain models are more common than others. Understanding the type of grease nipple you're working with can give you a good starting point when identifying the correct thread.

Common Types of Grease Nipples

There are several designs, but three types are most frequently used:

• Cone grease nipples (DIN 71412)
• Flat grease nipples (DIN 3404)
• Funnel grease nipples (DIN 3405)

Among these, the cone grease nipple is the most widely used, thanks to its rounded head and reliable performance. Flat and funnel-shaped versions are also common, though they have distinct differences in both appearance and function. Knowing which type you have can help narrow down the possible thread options.

Cylindrical vs. Conical Threads

Once you’ve identified the type of grease nipple, you can determine whether it has a cylindrical or conical thread. Cone-type grease nipples usually have a conical (tapered) thread, while flat and funnel types typically use a cylindrical thread. This distinction is important when selecting the right thread tap for replacement or repair.

Popular Thread Standards in Germany

In Germany, metric threads are the most commonly used. However, imperial threads are still found in older equipment or imported systems. It's essential to recognize the difference between metric and imperial standards, as using the wrong one can cause damage or improper installation.

Metric Threads on Grease Nipples

Metric threads are the standard in most German-made grease nipples. There are two main types:

Conical Metric Thread

This type follows DIN 158 and features a 60° flank angle with a taper of 1:16. A typical designation might look like M 6x1.0 keg.

Cylindrical Metric Fine Thread (MF)

These are used for flat and funnel grease nipples. They also have a 60° flank angle, and the designation includes the nominal diameter and pitch, such as M 8x1.0 MF.

Imperial Threads on Grease Nipples

For imperial threads, you'll often come across pipe thread standards. Two common types are:

BSP (British Standard Pipe) Parallel

Also known as BSPP, this is a cylindrical thread used in many European applications. It's designated with "BSP" followed by the nominal diameter in inches.

BSPT (British Standard Pipe Tapered)

This is a conical thread, often labeled as R followed by the outside diameter in inches. It's commonly used in sealing applications.

International Thread Variations

While the above standards are common in Germany, international components may use different thread types. For example, in the U.S., you might encounter:

• UNF (Unified National Fine)
• UNEF (Unified National Extra Fine)
• NPTF (National Pipe Taper Fuel)
• SAE-LT (Society of Automotive Engineers)

The most common size for NPTF is 1/8", so it's worth being familiar with this if you work with American equipment.

How to Identify the Correct Thread Tap

To find the right thread tap for your grease nipple, follow these steps:

1. Check if the thread is conical or cylindrical.
2. Determine the pitch by comparing it to a known screw or using a thread template.
3. Measure the outside diameter of the thread.

With these three details, you should be able to identify the correct thread type. If you're working with grease nipples regularly, an identification disc that contains various thread samples can be very useful. Alternatively, self-tapping grease nipples simplify the process by creating the thread as you install them.

If you're ever unsure, don't hesitate to reach out to a specialist. As a manufacturer of thread taps, we're here to help you find the right solution for every grease nipple.

You can find a guaranteed matching thread tap for every grease nipple at the BAER Online Shop. Take a look today!