Do You Need a Follower Plate? Pneumatic Grease Pump & NLGI Grade Guide

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Dec 2025

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Do You Need a Follower Plate? Pneumatic Grease Pump & NLGI Grade Guide

When Do You Need a Follower Plate? NLGI Grease Grade Guide | Jolong Machine
PRESSURE PLATE GUIDE
When Do You Need a Follower Plate?
The key factor is the NLGI consistency grade of your grease. Using a follower plate correctly ensures smooth grease extraction, prevents pump cavitation, and extends equipment life while maintaining work efficiency.
NLGI GRADE GUIDE
Follower Plate Requirements by NLGI Grade
NLGI
#00 / #0
Semi-fluid / Very Soft                           
Not Required
Recommendation: Not Required
This grade has good fluidity and flows naturally to the pump inlet — no additional assistance is needed.
NLGI #1
Soft, Paste-like                                      
Depends on Environment
Recommendation: Install Depending on Environment (Generally Not Required)
Please Note: In winter or low-temperature environments, the grease may harden — a follower plate is recommended to maintain stable feeding.
NLGI #2
Medium Consistency                            
Required
Recommendation: Required
This grade no longer flows naturally to the pump inlet. A follower plate is required to prevent air pockets (cavitation) that can damage the pump.
NLGI #3
High Consistency, Firm                        
Reinforced Pressure Needed
Recommendation: Reinforced Pressure Assistance Required
Solution: Standard pumps struggle with this consistency. We recommend the HV Series pressurized pump, which uses a pneumatic cylinder for strong, effective downward force.
BEFORE & AFTER
With vs. Without a Follower Plate
Jolong Machine - Follower Plate Comparison
⚠ Without a Follower Plate
After the pump draws grease, an air pocket easily forms inside the drum, making further extraction difficult. This often leaves a large amount of grease stuck at the bottom — wasting material and causing the pump to run dry.
✓ With a Follower Plate
The follower plate applies even pressure and suction across the surface, ensuring smooth, continuous extraction while significantly reducing leftover grease at the bottom of the drum — maximizing efficiency and minimizing waste.
INSTALLATION
How to Install a Follower Plate Correctly
Jolong Machine - Follower Plate Installation
Still have questions? We're here to help.
If you have high-viscosity grease extraction needs, or any questions about follower plate selection or installation, please contact our technical team — we're glad to help you find the right equipment solution.
✉ Contact Us
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