Progressive Pumps
Progressive Pumps for Centralized Lubrication Systems – precise lubrication for maximum uptime
Machines should produce, not pause. When bearings run hot, guides judder, or chains squeal, one thing is usually missing: the right amount of lubricant at the right moment, in the right place. Progressive pumps are the robust, predictable solution for that. They centrally supply entire machines or plants with grease or oil and, via downstream progressive divider valves, distribute the medium precisely to each lubrication point. The result: planned maintenance, longer service life, and less downtime.
What is a progressive pump?
Progressive pumps are the feed and pressure unit of a progressive centralized lubrication system. The pump moves lubricant from a reservoir into the main line and feeds progressive divider valves (sectionally built metering distributors). These split the delivered volume into defined portions that are released one after another to the outlets in a fixed sequence. Because each piston only moves when the previous cycle has completed, the rule is: if a lubrication point is blocked, the branch stops. A fault becomes immediately visible. The progressive principle is therefore self-monitoring and extremely reliable in operation.
How it works – short and clear
- Deliver & build pressure: The pump (driven electrically, pneumatically, or hydraulically) conveys grease or oil into the main line and builds system pressure.
- Progressively distribute: Sectional divider valves split the volume into defined doses and pass them on in a fixed sequence to the connected lubrication points.
- Monitor & control: Level switches, pressure switches, cycle indicators, and integrated controllers provide clear condition monitoring and prevent dry running.
The advantage is obvious: consistent dosing, high fault tolerance, and modular expandability if additional lubrication points are added later.
Benefits of progressive pumps
- Precise metering: Defined volumes per stroke for uniform lubrication without over- or under-supply.
- High operational reliability: The progressive principle makes malfunctions detectable; system sections are easy to diagnose.
- Scalable & modular: Expandable from a few to hundreds of lubrication points.
- Economical: Lower lubricant consumption, less manual work, longer bearing service life.
- Media-flexible: Suitable for oils and greases (system-dependent up to NLGI 2).
- Easy integration: Either with integrated control or via external PLC.
Typical applications
- Machine tools, machining centers, presses
- Packaging and conveyor technology, handling systems
- Wood and paper industry, sawmills
- Building materials, recycling, and bulk material technology
- Construction machinery, agricultural and municipal vehicles
- Steel, cement, and chemical plants
Wherever many lubrication points must be supplied cyclically, reliably, and traceably, progressive systems play to their strengths.
Product selection – examples from our range
We offer progressive pumps for mobile and stationary applications in various voltage and size classes. A few popular model series that have proven themselves in projects:
- Graco G3 (12/24 V, compact design): The G3 is a robust all-round pump for greases up to NLGI 2. Typical features include a compact reservoir, a wiper arm (follower plate) to prevent air pockets, and interchangeable pump elements to adapt the delivery rate to demand. Ideal for smaller machines or mobile applications.
- Larger G3 variants (e.g., with 12-liter reservoir): When long refill intervals are required, larger reservoirs are the right choice. That reduces downtime, especially on systems with many lubrication points and multiple divider stages.
- SKF/Vogel KFGX (12/24 V, mobile applications): This series is designed for tough use, such as on construction machinery or commercial vehicles. Variants without integrated control can be conveniently clocked via the vehicle electrics or an existing PLC; level monitoring and pump elements are available depending on configuration.
- BEKA MAX EP-1 (24 V, with control unit): A compact single-pump solution with integrated logic. Run and pause times are set directly on the pump; sensors and diagnostics integrate cleanly. A good option when plug-and-play is required.
Note: Not every system needs an integrated controller. Where a central PLC already exists, a “lean” pump with external timing is often sufficient. That saves costs and simplifies integration.
Selection criteria – how to find the right pump
- Power & drive: 12/24 V DC for mobile applications or 115/230 V AC in shops? Is pneumatics or hydraulics available?
- Reservoir size: From small (e.g., 2 l) to large (e.g., 12 l) – depending on cycle count, number of lubrication points, and medium.
- Pump elements: Number and size determine the delivery rate; adjustable or replaceable for future adaptation.
- Control: Integrated (with display/parameterization) or external control via PLC/relays.
- Monitoring: Level switch, pressure switch, cycle indicator on divider valves, optional feedback to the control room.
- Environment: Temperature window, dust/moisture, vibration; consider protection class and mounting location.
- Medium: Oil or grease? Viscosity/NLGI class and desired line cross-sections are crucial for system design.
Components that make the difference
- Progressive divider valves: Sectional design with a defined sequence and optional cycle indicator. They enable clear diagnostics: if one outlet stops, the branch stops and the fault becomes visible.
- Wiper arm & reservoir geometry: Prevents channeling in the grease and ensures uniform feeding, even at lower temperatures.
- Sensors: “Empty” level signal, pressure spike detection, cycle counters, aligned with the machine’s safety concept.
- Tubing & fittings: Pressure- and temperature-resistant, properly sized and neatly routed; they decisively influence system reliability.
Practical examples
- Machining center: A mains-powered progressive pump with integrated controller supplies several progressive divider valves. Bearings, guides, and the spindle receive defined doses; the “empty” level signal prompts timely refilling.
- Mobile construction machine: A 24 V pump without integrated controller is timed via the vehicle electrics. Thanks to a 6 kg reservoir, refill intervals are extended; level monitoring protects against dry running.
- Packaging line: With many lubrication points, a larger reservoir variant reduces service stops. Cycle indicators on the divider valves simplify diagnostics in the event of a fault.
Installation and commissioning – best practices
- Create a lubrication point list: number, location, required dose per cycle.
- Define the medium: oil/grease, viscosity or NLGI class, temperature range.
- Plan the distribution structure: main line, divider stages, branch lines; consider lengths and pressure losses.
- Size the pump elements: match delivery rate to the sum of outlets and the cycle.
- Parameterize the control: run/pause times, signal thresholds, feedbacks.
- Documentation & labeling: flow diagrams, parts lists, wiring diagrams, and measurement points make service easier.
Service & support from Sinntec
Whether a new project, retrofit, or replacement for an existing system: we support you with selection, sizing, mounting accessories, and commissioning. On request, we supply pre-assembled kits consisting of pump, divider valves, tubing, fittings, and sensors. That shortens downtime and gets your system back in operation quickly.
At Sinntec you’ll find a wide range of leading brands such as Graco, SKF/Vogel, and BEKA. We select all products with project verification, focusing on durability, availability, and compatibility. Thanks to high stock levels and close partnerships with manufacturers, many variants are available at short notice. This way you get exactly the progressive pump that fits your requirements, without compromises on quality and service.
We deliver reliably worldwide, on schedule and well packaged. If you have questions, we’re reachable, respond quickly, and resolve issues pragmatically. We procure spare parts and accessories fast so that your system is back to being productive in short order. Use our contact form and we’ll help you find the right pump.