SMC lubricators are designed to supply a controlled amount of oil into compressed air lines and mechanical systems, helping to reduce friction, minimise wear and extend the service life of components. These air lubricators form a key part of any pneumatic lubrication system by delivering oil mist directly into the airflow and mechanisms.
By delivering consistent lubrication to cylinders, valves and other moving parts, these units contribute to stable operation, improved efficiency and reduced maintenance requirements. As a compressed air lubricator, the device ensures continuous air cylinder lubrication and valve lubrication without manual intervention.
Complete lubrication solutions
SMC offers a wide range of lubricators to suit different installation requirements, flow capacities and application environments. From compact units for small machines to high-flow models for demanding industrial systems, the portfolio enables precise oil supply across the entire air preparation stage.
The range includes:
- automatic lubricator and auto lubers for continuous lubrication
- inline pneumatic oiler and airline lubricator designs
- FRL lubricator solutions integrated with filter regulator lubricator assemblies
- SMC filter, regulator, lubricator combinations for air preparation
These lubricators can be used as standalone devices or integrated into modular air preparation units alongside filters and regulators, creating a complete solution for air quality control and system protection.
Protecting components and extending equipment life
Proper lubrication is essential to maintain the performance of pneumatic and mechanical systems. SMC lubricators help:
- Reduce friction between moving components
- Prevent premature wear and seal damage
- Maintain smooth and consistent actuator motion
- Improve overall system reliability
By acting as a pneumatic air lubricator, the unit distributes atomised oil evenly across the air stream or equipment, supporting long-term cylinder lubrication systems and protecting seals and sliding surfaces.
By ensuring that the correct amount of oil reaches each component, these solutions support long-term operational stability and lower total cost of ownership.
Flexible designs for diverse applications
SMC pneumatic air lubricators are available in multiple sizes and configurations, allowing easy integration into new or existing installations. Their designs support straightforward maintenance and oil replenishment, while consistent oil atomisation ensures uniform lubrication throughout the system.
The modular FRL concept allows lubricators to be combined with filters and regulators in a single air preparation assembly
Point-of-use lubrication (air mist lubricator)
To ensure actuators remain continuously lubricated, compressed air lubrication at point of use: airline lubricators such as the modular type AL-D, or auto-feed pneumatic lubricator ALF and large-flow airline lubricator AL800/900 Series supply a constant air mist to the pneumatic system.
Automatic feed lubricators prevent oil shortage and significantly reduce maintenance labour by feeding oil automatically.
Centralised lubrication (compressed air lubrication system)
Main airline lubrication: Centralised lubrication units distribute lubrication downstream, such as the DP Lube ALD Series.
Centralised control allows multi-point lubrication with low oil consumption and adjustable pressure differential feeding.
Machine and component lubrication
Machine lubrication: for direct application of lubricants in movable parts, injection or drip lubrication units such as ALIP and LMU Series optimise equipment performance.
Impulse lubricators deliver small, controlled oil quantities directly before the lubrication point, ideal for gears and sliding parts
Mist spray units mix air and oil to create fine lubrication mist for machining and industrial automation equipment.
Whether used in automated production lines, packaging machinery, material handling or general industrial equipment, SMC lubrication solutions help keep pneumatic systems running smoothly and efficiently.They provide reliable lubrication for industrial automation where consistent performance and minimal downtime are required.
If you need further assistance in the selection of the right lubrication solution for your needs, don’t hesitate to ask our experts.
Frequently asked questions about pneumatic air lubricators
What is a pneumatic lubricator and what does it do?
A pneumatic lubricator is a device operated by compressed air that can be used to inject a controlled amount of oil in the airflow or machine parts.
Its purpose is to maintain proper lubrication during operation by continuously supplying oil while the system is running. This helps:
- Reduce friction between components
- Prevent premature wear and seal damage
- Ensure smooth actuator movement
- Improve reliability and service life of equipment
Depending on the design, the lubricator may supply oil at the point of use, automatically maintain oil levels, distribute lubrication to multiple devices, or deliver small, measured quantities directly before the lubrication point.
Why is lubrication important in a pneumatic system?
Lubrication reduces friction, prevents seal wear and ensures smooth actuator movement, improving reliability and extending equipment life.
What is the difference between an airline lubricator and a central lubrication system?
An airline lubricator supplies oil mist at the point of use, while a centralised lubrication system distributes oil to multiple downstream components from one main unit.
What type of oil should you use in a pneumatic lubricator?
For SMC pneumatic lubricators, the recommended lubricant is turbine oil class 1 (ISO VG32). This oil type is specified across several SMC lubricator ranges, including modular lubricators, centralised lubrication units and large-flow lubricators.
When should I use an automatic lubricator?
Automatic lubricators are recommended when continuous lubrication is required and manual oil refilling or adjustment should be minimised, such as in automated production equipment.
Can pneumatic cylinders work without lubrication?
Some components are pre-lubricated, but in demanding or high-cycle applications, a lubricator improves durability and performance by reducing wear.
