How AirLock creates a contamination-free storage environment

Contamination is the silent enemy of oil integrity – and it's more common than many realise. While most organisations focus on filtration and cleanliness at the point of use, few stop to consider how vulnerable oil is during storage. The AirLock system changes that.

Why should I worry about oil storage contamination?

Even in controlled environments, oil can be compromised before it ever reaches your machinery. Traditional storage drums and totes aren’t airtight – they “breathe” with changes in temperature and pressure. This allows airborne contaminants like moisture, dust, and micro-particles to enter and degrade the oil. Over time, this leads to higher filtration costs, reduced lubricant effectiveness, and increased wear on your equipment.

Reader question:   “Isn’t my filter system enough to deal with contamination?”

Not quite. Filtration is important, but it's reactive – it deals with contaminants after they’ve entered the system. Preventing contamination at the storage stage reduces the load on your filters, extends oil life, and helps ensure equipment reliability. Prevention is not just better – it’s essential.

Introducing AirLock: a new standard for oil protection

AirLock offers a proactive approach. It’s a patented device that replaces the drum plug on your oil container and uses low-pressure air to create a barrier. This barrier prevents contaminants from entering the headspace of the drum. The concept is simple, but the results are game-changing.

How does AirLock work?

The science behind AirLock lies in controlled pressurisation. Once fitted, a small amount of air – typically just 1 to 2 PSI – is introduced into the container. This pressurised headspace acts as a shield. As long as internal pressure exceeds ambient pressure, contaminants can’t get in.

This method is effective across a range of storage conditions. Whether your drums are stored in a warehouse, near production areas, or outdoors, AirLock helps maintain the purity of your lubricants.

Technical Information

Reader question: “Is it safe to open the drum if there’s still pressure inside?”

Safety is a core part of AirLock’s design. When you’re ready to access the oil, it’s critical to relieve internal pressure first. Simply rotate the AirLock device half a turn counterclockwise and wait for the hissing sound of escaping air to stop. This ensures pressure has equalised and it’s safe to remove the device.

Following this process preserves both your safety and the quality of the oil.

AirLock's visibility indicator: constant reassurance

Not sure if your drum is still pressurised? AirLock includes a high-visibility indicator that gives a clear visual cue. It shows at a glance whether the system is active, helping technicians monitor and manage storage more easily – no guesswork, no surprises.

What industries benefit most from AirLock?

AirLock is ideal for sectors that depend on lubricant integrity, including:

• Manufacturing and heavy industry
• Automotive and fleet maintenance
• Agriculture and off-road machinery
• Power generation and energy sectors

In these environments, even small reductions in equipment reliability can lead to costly downtime. AirLock provides peace of mind by addressing contamination at the source.

How AirLock Works: 

The Science Behind the Seal Using AirLock couldn't be simpler. Just replace your existing drum plug with AirLock, and then use the attached valve to pump a small amount of air into your drum – only one or two PSI is needed. As pressure increases within the drum's headspace, an invisible barrier forms, preventing contaminants from infiltrating. It's like a force field for your oil – as long as the pressure inside remains greater than outside, your lubricant remains pristine.

Installation and specifications

AirLock installation is straightforward. It replaces your existing drum bung, and includes a valve for quick pressurisation. The unit is reusable and made from industrial-grade materials to withstand harsh environments.

Part number: AIRLOCK

Watch AirLock in action

A short demo video is available to show just how easy and effective AirLock is to use. Seeing it in operation makes it clear: this is a smart upgrade for any oil storage system.

Take action: protect your oil today

Oil contamination may be invisible – but its consequences are not. Don’t let compromised storage erode your maintenance efforts. AirLock is a simple, low-cost solution that brings high-impact results. Protect your oil, extend the life of your filters and equipment, and gain control over contamination before it starts.

Pressure in – contaminants out. It really is that simple with AirLock.