Oil Can & Hand Pump Oiler Manufacturer & Exporter - Hand Pump Oilers / Oil Cans

Frequently Asked Questions: Oil Cans & Hand Pump Oilers

What types of oil cans do you manufacture?

We manufacture 9 types: Wesco-type pump oilers (S-411), Perfectto/PT series with brass pump (S-421), pistol oilers (S-430), OC series lever-type (S-444), OC series pistol-type (S-441P), single body oilers (S-451), plastic oilers (S-462), LDPE hand squeeze bottles (S-SQZ) and bench oilers with snap bottom (S-BO). Each type is available in multiple sizes from 125 ml to 1,000 ml with rigid, flexible or combination spout options.

What oil should I use in a hand pump oiler?

Use light machine oil (ISO VG 10 to 68) for most hand pump oiler applications. For general workshop use, a standard machine oil or sewing machine oil works well. For food processing equipment, use food-grade mineral oil. Avoid using thick grease in oil cans as it will clog the pump mechanism and spout. The oil should flow freely through the spout without excessive force on the plunger.

What is a Wesco-type oil can?

A Wesco-type oil can (our S-411 series) is a classic pump oiler with a thumb-operated plunger that delivers oil through a rigid or flexible spout. Available in 125 ml (1/4 pint) up to 1,000 ml capacity with 5 to 6 inch spout lengths. The tin-coated steel body with seamless construction prevents leaks. It is the most widely used oil can design in workshops worldwide.

What is the difference between rigid and flexible spout oil cans?

Rigid spout oil cans provide direct, precise oil delivery to accessible fittings, available in 4 to 9 inch lengths including 30 degree bent options. Flexible spout oil cans have a bendable metal spout that can reach around corners and into tight spaces. We offer rigid (/R), flexible (/F) and combination (/RF) variants across all product lines, plus replacement spouts as accessories.

What is a brass pump oil can?

A brass pump oil can uses a precision brass plunger mechanism instead of a standard steel pump. Brass is naturally corrosion-resistant and provides smoother, more consistent oil delivery over the life of the oiler. Our Perfectto/PT series (S-421) and pistol oilers (S-430) feature brass pump mechanisms. Preferred in professional workshops and industrial environments where reliability and longevity matter.

What is the difference between a pump oiler and a squeeze bottle?

Pump oilers (Wesco, Perfectto, pistol types) use a plunger mechanism that delivers a controlled, measured amount of oil with each pump. Squeeze bottles (S-SQZ series) are simpler, made from flexible LDPE plastic, and deliver oil by squeezing the body. Pump oilers offer more precision and are better for machinery lubrication. Squeeze bottles are lighter, unbreakable and better for general purpose or high-volume applications where precision is less critical.

What size oil can do I need?

For portable workshop use, 125 to 250 ml (4 to 8 oz) is the most practical size. Larger 500 ml to 1,000 ml (16 to 32 oz) oil cans are better for stationary workstations or when oiling many points in one session. Our Wesco-type (S-411) and OC series (S-444, S-441P) are available in the full range. Bench oilers (S-BO series) come in 125 ml and 150 ml for workstation use.

Can I use an oil can for grease?

No. Oil cans are designed for thin, free-flowing lubricants only. Grease is too thick for the pump mechanism and spout, and will clog the oil can permanently. For grease applications, use a lever action grease gun or pistol grip grease gun which are built to handle thick lubricants under high pressure.

How do I clean an oil can?

Flush the oil can with a light solvent or kerosene, pump it through the spout several times, then drain completely. For steel oil cans, wipe the exterior dry to prevent rust. Never use water inside a steel oil can. For plastic oilers (S-462 series), you can use warm soapy water. If switching oil types, flush thoroughly to avoid contamination. Replace the spout if it becomes clogged or damaged.

What is a glue brush can?

A glue brush can is a tin container with a brush built into the screw-on cap, designed for applying adhesives, PVC cement, solvents and contact glue. The brush allows precise, controlled application without mess. We manufacture glue brush cans for leatherwork, shoe repair, plumbing (PVC/CPVC cement), bookbinding and general craft applications. Available in multiple sizes with different brush widths.

What industries use oil cans?

Oil cans are used across virtually every industry that has moving machinery. Common applications include sewing machine lubrication (textile industry), bicycle chain oiling, door hinge maintenance, factory machinery bearings, printing press rollers, woodworking equipment, automotive assembly lines and food processing equipment (using food-grade oil in plastic oilers).

Do you offer OEM oil can manufacturing?

Yes. We provide full OEM and private label manufacturing with custom branding, specifications and packaging for all 9 product lines. We supply distributors and industrial buyers in over 27 countries. Visit our OEM partnership page for details on bulk orders and export supply.