Grease Reels

Grease Reels

Grease reels are spring-return hose reels permanently plumbed into a workshop bay's grease dispensing system, providing convenient access to pressurised grease at a fixed location without the need to carry drums or bulk containers. The reel feeds a flexible high-pressure hose that can be pulled to the work point and retracts automatically when released. In workshop environments with multiple service bays or frequent lubrication tasks, a fixed grease reel system eliminates the handling of grease drums and guns, significantly improving lubrication program efficiency and reducing contamination risk. AIMS Industrial supplies grease reels for workshop, service bay, and industrial plant lubrication applications.

Reel Construction and Pressure Ratings

Grease reels must be engineered for the high working pressures of grease dispensing systems — grease guns operate at 200–500 bar, and the hose and reel components must sustain this pressure over continuous service. Quality grease reels use steel hose construction with swaged end fittings rated for the working pressure, a heavy-duty spring-return mechanism, and a sealed swivel at the drum centre that maintains a leak-free rotary connection as the hose is paid out and retracted. The swivel is the most maintenance-intensive component of a grease reel — inspect regularly for leakage and replace the swivel seal when grease weeping is detected.

Hose Length and Fitting Configuration

Grease reel hose lengths typically range from 6m to 15m depending on the workshop bay depth and the furthest lubrication point to be reached. Longer hose increases the volume of grease in the line, affecting delivery accuracy for precision lubrication programs where specific dose quantities are important. End fittings are selected to match the grease gun coupler or connect directly to the dispense valve. Most reels use 1/4" BSP connections at both the inlet (supply line) and outlet (hose end).

Plumbing into Bulk Systems

Grease reels are typically fed from a bulk drum pump or central lubrication system — a dedicated supply line runs from the bulk container to each reel, keeping the reel charged with grease at working pressure. Bulk drum pump capacity must be matched to the number of reels and the expected simultaneous use. For grease reel selection, bulk system design, and lubrication equipment supply, contact our team.

Installation and Maintenance of Grease Reels

Grease reels should be mounted at a height that allows the hose to retract cleanly without kinking or coiling on the floor. Ensure the inlet connection is properly sealed and that the swivel joint at the reel hub is lubricated — a dry swivel is a common source of leaks on reels that have been in service for some time. Check the retraction spring tension periodically and adjust if the hose retracts too aggressively or fails to retract fully. Flush the hose with fresh grease before first use to remove any assembly lubricant or contamination from the manufacturing process.