A dry film lubricant is often the perfect answer when it comes to creating a friction-free interaction between two surfaces. A dry film lubricant offers a liquid-free solution, making it less messy and easier to maintain than traditional lubricants; however, with so many different dry lubricants on the market and so many uses, how can you match the two? Let’s take a look at five key considerations.

1. Look at the substrate

It is important to consider the type of substrate material before you decide which type of dry lubricant to use for your project. The key consideration here is temperature. Substrates that rise to a high temperature may affect the composition of the lubricant, so check that your lubricant can withstand the temperature to which it may be exposed.

2. Does the part have any plating?

If one of the parts you are applying lubricant to has plating, you may need to choose your dry film lubricant more carefully. Plating can break down at temperatures in excess of 400 degrees, which may well impact the product you choose.

3. Does it meet guidelines?

If you are producing something for use for food or medicine, it will need to meet certain criteria. In the UK, it will be either the MHRA (Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency) or the FSA (Food Standards Agency) that regulates this. It is also worth looking at the UK’s good manufacturing practice (GMP) guidelines. If you have any questions about surface engineering, contact a specialist such as www.poeton.co.uk.

4. Does it need elevated corrosion prevention?

We all want to see corrosion prevention in the products we use, but do the parts in question have a higher than average need for corrosion prevention? If so, look out for dry lubricants that offer this.

5. What are you trying to achieve?

The reasons a project needs dry lubrication vary and the solution itself will dictate which lubricant you choose. Is there sticking or galling that you need to dissipate? Is the problem about components that rub together and make a noise? Does the product remain unused for large periods of time, making liquid lubricant unusable?

As you can see, there is lots to think about when choosing the right dry film lubricant, with temperature, plating and official guidelines all key considerations.