Next-generation LAGG AF grease pumps engineered to accelerate efficiency

Last Updated 2 months ago by Kenya Engineer

Global bearing and rotating equipment specialist SKF continues its mission of “fighting friction to move the world forward” with the introduction of a new generation of air-operated grease pumps designed to improve equipment reliability and advance plant sustainability.

Friction remains one of the primary causes of premature component wear, costly breakdowns and operational inefficiencies across industrial environments. Through precision lubrication technologies, SKF aims to reduce downtime, extend asset life and enhance maintenance performance.

Introducing the LAGG AF Series

Building on its lubrication expertise, SKF has unveiled the LAGG AF series, comprising three models:

• LAGG 18AF

• LAGG 50AF

• LAGG 180AF

Designed for medium to large grease pack sizes, the new range combines robust engineering with energy-efficient operation, delivering improved lubrication performance in demanding industrial settings.

According to Eddie Martens, Product Manager – MaPro at SKF South Africa, the new pumps are engineered to support modern maintenance strategies while aligning with sustainability objectives.

“Designed for modern industry needs, these innovative grease pumps assist organisations in optimising maintenance practices while advancing sustainability goals,” says Martens.

Enhanced Performance and Faster Lubrication Cycles

The LAGG AF series builds on the trusted design of SKF’s previous AE models, retaining familiar features while introducing significant performance improvements.

A key upgrade is the enhanced flow rate of 1.1 kg/min (2.4 lb/min), enabling faster lubrication cycles. This improvement translates into:

• Reduced equipment downtime

• Improved maintenance efficiency

• Optimised service intervals

• Increased productivity in high-demand operations

With higher pressure capability and improved flow performance, the pumps ensure fast, clean and reliable greasing, even when working with large grease pack sizes.

Designed for Reliability and Contamination Protection

The LAGG AF pumps are particularly suited for:

• Topping up centralised lubrication system reservoirs

• Large-scale industrial greasing applications

• Operations requiring strict contamination control

The system provides enhanced protection against contamination both during operation and when stationary, helping to safeguard lubrication integrity and extend component life.

Installation flexibility is another key advantage. The pumps are fully compatible with SKF 18 kg, 50 kg and 180 kg grease drums, as well as most equivalent drum size standards, simplifying deployment across multiple facilities.

Built for Demanding Industrial Sectors

Purpose-built for heavy-duty environments, the LAGG AF series is well suited to sectors such as:

• Metals

• Pulp and paper

• Mining

• Mineral processing and cement (MMPC)

• Food and beverage

However, its versatility makes it applicable across virtually any industrial setting requiring reliable and high-performance lubrication systems.

Each model is clearly named according to capacity:

• LAGG 18AF – 18 kg

• LAGG 50AF – 50 kg

• LAGG 180AF – 180 kg

The updated “AF” suffix replaces the previous “AE” designation, simplifying product identification.

SKF confirms that its trusted hand-operated LAGG 18M pump remains part of the portfolio and will continue to be offered alongside the new air-operated models.

Supporting Smarter Maintenance and Sustainable Plants

By combining higher flow performance, contamination control and compatibility across drum standards, the LAGG AF series reinforces SKF’s broader objective of improving asset reliability while supporting plant sustainability initiatives.

For industries facing rising maintenance costs and pressure to enhance operational efficiency, precision lubrication remains one of the most cost-effective strategies to protect rotating equipment and maximise uptime.