Abstract:
The present application relates to an applicator for a consumable member. The applicator comprises a spindle (130,140), a hub (40) pivotally connected to the spindle and adapted to connect to the consumable member, and a biasing assembly (120) for rotating the hub relative to the spindle. Rotation of the hub relative to the spindle advances the consumable member. The applicator of the present invention can be used to lubricate a metal surface, such as the flange of a rail car wheel. The present application also relates to a composite stick for lubricating a metal surface. The composite stick comprises a solid composition made of a first material, wherein one, or more than one surface of the solid composition has a coating of a composition comprising a second material. The first material of the composite stick may be a lubricant, and the second material of the coating may be a polymeric material.