Menno Compressed Air Grease Cup

Menno Compressed Air Grease Cup, ordinary type in polished brass, 3 oz capacity

This lubricator was patented by Mr. J. F. Lewis, of Philadelphia, in 1905. In it the grease contained in the cup is fed to the bearing in a constant stream by air compressed in an inverted cup-shaped cap which screws into the body of the lubricator. The cap or air container has a flat disc which fits loosely within it and which, whilst being free to move vertically, is made to rotate with the cap by means of a flat link sliding in a central guide tube. As the cap is screwed into the body the disc flattens the grease and prevents the air from forcing a passage through it. The grease itself acts as a seal and prevents leakage at the screwed joint. A funnel in the cup helps to secure an even flow, and is pierced by small holes through which grease escapes when the disc rests on the top of the funnel. Should the adjustment of the cap be neglected the journal will communicate its rise in temperature to the air, which will expand and increase the supply of lubricant. The example shown is of 3 oz. capacity and is the ordinary type of polished brass pressed from sheet metal.