Silicone grease is a sought-after solution for a wide range of applications. A non-toxic lubricant, it is water-resistant and manufactured by mixing silicone oil with a thickening agent such as silica powder.
This innovative grease is extremely flexible and can lubricate a wide range of materials including plastic and metal, defending them from corrosion, friction and unwanted contaminants. As such, silicon grease sees domestic use for weather stripping and plumbing, but also more specialised applications, lubricating highly sensitive lab equipment or insulating in the electronic manufacturing.
Before using any lubricant, it is critical to ensure that the product is compatible with all equipment components. With many types of machinery using rubber seals, equipment users often ask whether silicone grease is safe for rubber. Here, we delve into this topic in further detail.
Silicone grease is safe for most rubber
A viscous product, silicone grease is extremely effective at both protecting and lubricating O-ring seals and other parts made of rubber. It can help rubber seals slide into position and lowers the risk of damage occurring during installation.
Silicone grease is coveted for the way it prevents rubber breaking down. Unlike lubricants that have a petroleum base, silicone grease doesn’t cause synthetic and natural rubbers to degrade, crack, soften or swell, so the parts made from them can perform at optimum for longer.
The water-resistant nature of silicone grease is an additional benefit. Once applied, it forms a waterproof seal and can resist oxidation. As a result, it is used in a variety of applications where oxidation or water contamination are a risk, like in plumbing, brake callipers and even diving suits.
Further applications of silicone grease
While silicone grease is safe for use with most types of rubber, it is also suitable for metal and plastic components, making it a match for many types of machinery.
Is there a rubber that silicone grease is not right for?
Silicone grease is incompatible with silicone rubber due to their chemical similarity. As a result, it should never be used with parts made from silicone rubber or they may soften, swell and break down. Always select the right grease by following OEM (original equipment manufacturer) recommendations. Some O-ring greases are formulated for specific polymers and applications like brake and hydraulic systems.
For high quality greases from leading brands like Millers, Morris and Petronas, contact the team at Oil Store now.
