A
preparation used to prevent
seizing of
mechanical parts, whether due to
high assembly forces or
corrosion. Anti seize compounds are used in
operation of many types of
industrial equipment and
automotive repair
and assembly. Different varieties exist for specific purposes, including
high temperature operation,
corrosive or
marine environments, and
varieties which are
safe (and approved) for use in
food processing, and
may include any of the following:
zinc,
bronze,
copper,
graphite or
molybdenum disulfide.
Generally these compounds provide dry lubrication, which has the benefit
that it may stay in place in services where environmental exposure to
water, rain etc could quickly remove all traces of a liquid lubricant, or
where a mechanism might not be disassembled for years or decades.
Perhaps the most common usage in everyday experience is in automotive
maintenance, where a cautious mechanic will apply anti seize compound to
bolts which experience has shown can be difficult or impossible to loosen.
Prime examples would include wheel lugs, Exhaust and silencer fittings
and exhaust manifold nuts and bolts. Stainless steel fittings should
often be considered candidates for application of anti seize compound, owing
to it's high likelihood of galling.