There is a time and place for nearly all things and using Anti-Seize Lubricant is no exception. While this can be a great product to have is your garage, it has a specific application that should be followed. So how, why, and when should Anti-Seize be used and not used?
What Is Anti-Seize?
Anti-seize lubricant is a special type of lubricant that is used to prevent metal parts from seizing (binding) due to corrosion, pressure, heat, or other factors. It is typically made of a mixture of metals (such as copper, aluminum, or nickel), suspended in a lubricating oil or grease, and helps to protect against corrosion, reduce friction, and ease disassembly. Anti-seize is commonly used in applications such as automotive, industrial, and marine where metal parts are subjected to high temperatures, pressure, and corrosive environments.
What Is It Supposed To Be Used On?
Anti-seize lubricant is used on metal parts that are exposed to high temperatures, pressure, corrosive environments, or repeated assembly and disassembly, where seizing or galling can occur. Some common examples of metal parts where anti-seize is used include:
- Bolts and nuts, especially in high-temperature and high-pressure applications such as engines and exhaust systems.
- Threaded connections, such as pipe fittings and plumbing.
- Fasteners and connectors in industrial equipment, electrical equipment, and marine applications.
- Metal-to-metal contact surfaces, such as hinges, latches, and sliding mechanisms.
Using anti-seize lubricant helps to reduce friction and wear, prevent corrosion, and ease disassembly, ensuring that metal parts can be removed or tightened as needed without damaging the threads or other surfaces.
How Do You Apply It?
Applying anti-seize lubricant is a straightforward process that typically involves the following steps:
- Clean the metal parts: Clean the metal surfaces thoroughly to remove any dirt, dust, or other contaminants that may interfere with the application of the anti-seize lubricant.
- Apply the lubricant: Apply a small amount of anti-seize lubricant to the metal parts, being careful not to apply too much. You can use a brush, swab, or spray can to apply the lubricant, depending on the size and shape of the parts.
- Spread the lubricant evenly: Spread the lubricant evenly over the metal surfaces, making sure that all threads, crevices, and other areas are covered.
- Assemble the parts: Assemble the metal parts, being careful not to over-tighten them or apply excessive pressure. The anti-seize lubricant will help to reduce friction and prevent seizing or galling, even under high temperatures or pressure.
- Store any unused lubricant properly: If there is any unused anti-seize lubricant, store it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat.
Note: Different types of anti-seize lubricant may have specific instructions for use, so it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and recommendations.
Does It Work?
Yes, anti-seize lubricant can effectively prevent metal parts from seizing or galling due to high temperatures, pressure, corrosion, or repeated assembly and disassembly. The lubricant helps to reduce friction and wear, prevent corrosion, and make disassembly easier, allowing metal parts to be removed or tightened as needed without damaging the threads or other surfaces.
However, it’s important to use anti-seize lubricant properly, following the manufacturer’s guidelines and recommendations. Improper use, such as applying too much lubricant, can cause issues such as contamination or interference with other parts or systems. Additionally, not all anti-seize lubricants are created equal, and some may be more suitable for certain applications than others, so it’s important to choose the right product for the job.
Permatex 80078 Anti-Seize Lubricant
What You Should Avoid Putting Anti-Seize On
While anti-seize lubricant can be effective in preventing metal parts from seizing or galling, it’s important to use it properly and avoid putting it on certain surfaces or in certain situations. Some things to avoid when using anti-seize lubricant include:
- Non-metal surfaces: Anti-seize lubricant should only be used on metal surfaces, as it may cause damage or interference with other materials, such as rubber or plastic.
- Brake components: Anti-seize lubricant should not be used on brake components, such as caliper bolts or brake hardware, as it can contaminate the brake pads and reduce braking performance.
- Electrical connections: Anti-seize lubricant should not be used on electrical connections, as it may cause electrical resistance or interfere with the electrical signal.
- Excessive application: Applying too much anti-seize lubricant can cause issues such as contamination or interference with other parts or systems. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and recommendations for the amount of lubricant to use.
- High-load bearing surfaces: Anti-seize lubricant is not recommended for use on high-load bearing surfaces, as it may cause excessive wear or damage over time.
In summary, it’s important to use anti-seize lubricant only on metal parts that are exposed to high temperatures, pressure, corrosive environments, or repeated assembly and disassembly, and to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and recommendations for use.
