Hi, we have operators that have been told to lubricate the rods on pneumatic cylinders(with grease).
As far as I can see this is a waste of time seeing the rods are ground and polished - producing minimal friction, not to mention the chemical affect on the seals and dirt and contamination pick up.
I therefore recommended they stop the practice and let them run dry - with perhaps a wipe with a rag every so often.
To my thinking any required lube should be provided by the air lube set up (internally).
What do you guys think?

Mike.

Have to agree; normally opened/normally closed. Could be a safety issue on wipeing the shaft though, especially if it's an automatic actuator. Blow them off or keep an accordian hose over them to protect them. Hopefully this is your worst problem or just venting?

Mike,

Like you, I always thought that was why you had lubricators in the air system.

Danny