If you are a manufacturer, an engineer, or a specialist in the nuclear industry, you are more than likely familiar with the differences between oil lubricants and Neolube, which is colloidal graphite suspended in isopropanol. The latter can be a timely and smart material to have in situations where a machine or part requires frequent disassembly and reassembly without damage to threaded connections.

How is Colloidal Graphite Lubricant different from Oil-based Lubricants?

In many cases, oil-based lubricants are used to lubricate combustion engines for industry. This is mostly due to the requirements of high-speed moving parts and the low cost of oil-based lubricants.

However, these oil-based products have severe limitations where dry-film lubricants are better suited. Grease disadvantages are grease-life limitations and limited cooling ability. Also, in some instances, there is a risk of grease starvation, which results in reduced lubrication.

That’s why as a manufacturer it is important to choose a lubricant that fits the environment for which it will be used. Graphite as a lubricant is in wide use in several industries including manufacturing, industrial, aerospace, and nuclear. More specifically, it is used in high-temperature settings, pressurized systems, and dusty environments where oil-based lubricants often fail.

What are the benefits of using a Colloidal Graphite Lubricant?

Colloidal Graphite Lubricant is Effective in High Temperatures

Graphite is best suited for lubrication in air. A liquid, much like isopropanol is a necessary component for graphite lubrication. When water is absorbed, it reduces the bonding energy of the graphite to a lower level. Thus, water vapor becomes a necessity for proper lubrication. Graphite powder on its own is not effective.

Another benefit of colloidal graphite lubricant is that it is highly effective in high temperatures. The effectiveness of graphite can reach high temperatures up to 450 °C, with a possibility of reaching even higher temperatures, continuously testing higher temperature peaks. 

Colloidal Graphite Prevents Galling

Graphite is also effective in preventing galling. When metal surfaces undergo a combination of sliding, excessive force, and high friction, galling can occur. In essence, galling is the transfer of metal and other materials between two surfaces. Over time this tends to cause damage to those metals and machines. Graphite as a lubricant can help this deterioration from occurring. Through a simple wipe-on of the best dry graphite-based lubricants, galling can be prevented. 

Colloidal Graphite Lubricant is Easy To Use and Simple to Apply

The beauty of colloidal graphite lubricant is that it leaves no mess, and no contamination lubricant is needed.  Wet lubricants tend to dry up, oftentimes becoming gummy, making it even more difficult for you to operate your equipment. Wet lubricants also have the tendency to attract other unwanted particles, like dust or sand, which again obstructs your equipment, and hinders your use of it. 

Graphite is hydrophobic, meaning it naturally repels water, so you need not worry about the sticky situation that you face with other lubricants. It won’t harm your machines or create an unwanted residue after. It’s easy to use and can be applied via a wet or dry solution.

The Bottom Line about Colloidal Graphite Lubricant

With all that being said, colloidal graphite lubricant poses a positive substitute for the alternative lubricant options available in the market. A manufacturer or any other professional in aerospace, industrial, nuclear, or any other industry for that matter, graphite as a dry lubricant serves as a viable option and replacement. 

Colloidal Graphite lubricant is a great option for any manufacturing company that is looking for ways to eliminate damage to threaded connections during assembly and/or maintenance of expensive machines in high-temperature, high-pressure, or dusty industrial settings.

If you’d like to learn more about our colloidal graphite lubricant, NEOLUBE product line, and how it can fit your needs, talk to our colloidal graphite lubricant expert, today.

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Galling is damage that occurs on sliding metal surfaces when a combination of excessive force and high friction cause the transfer of material.

Often macroscopic, between the two surfaces the metal from one surface tears away and becomes embedded in the other surface. The most common galling example is thread stripping in bolts, nuts, and other parts and is most susceptible to aluminum, stainless steel, or other very hardened steel and alloys. 

Why is Galling a Cause for Concern?

Galling is a sudden failure event and can cause all kinds of complicated repairs to machinery. The galling result can be as severe as friction welding of the two parts together so they can’t slide further. In threaded connections, this means stuck bolts.

Galling is common in many industrial applications such as sheet metal fabrication, engine bearings, pistons, air motors, and etc. Preventing galling in industrial settings can significantly reduce major unexpected outages and save vast amounts of money in lost production time. 

How to Prevent Galling?

Galling is a function of three things, one must address each specific application where prevention is needed. 

1. Lubrication is a crucial ingredient to galling prevention. Any sliding surfaces in an environment with high forces possible and using susceptible materials mandate proper lubrication. Dry graphite-based lubricants, such as Neolube, are custom made for those applications where a simple wipe-on, no-mess, no-contamination lubricant is needed. In some other less demanding cases, a little oil or grease will work. In food processing applications, special lubricants must be used that are food grade. 
2. Reducing force is the second key to preventing galling in existing systems. For threaded connections, for example, the second any tension is felt in the movement of the two parts, the force must be removed. Reversing the direction of a threaded bolt and moving it back and forth can free up areas that are starting to gall. This doesn’t work inside pistons or sliding machinery where only lubrication is the solution once the design is set. 
3. Material selection in the design phase is also critical. Softer steels and other metals are much less susceptible to galling and should be used in sliding applications where possible. Corrosion, hardness, strength, and many other design considerations dictate when soft metals won’t work. Metal surface treating and coatings can be effective at mitigating the risk of galling as well. 

Neolube #1 and Neolube #2 are great lubricants for reducing the probability of galling, particularly in stainless steel and other hardened alloys. The graphite layer that is dry and left on the sliding parts can retain its protective lubrication thickness in the contact zone where galling can occur. The ability to tightly control surface contamination with outside agents, like halogens, is the other significant benefit to a product like Neolube, which was developed for the Nuclear Power Industry but is also effective for thousands of different industrial applications. 

Contact Huron for all your complex lubrication and thread sealing applications. Call 810-984-4213 today. 

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Neolube 100 and its composition

NEOLUBE NO. 100 is a high-performance pipe thread sealant for locking and sealing metal pipes and fittings. This sealant is a creamy paste formulated to impart lubricity for assembly purposes, to provide immediate low-pressure sealing, and to cure to a solid for sealing and securing threaded pipe connections. This product has excellent solvent resistance and continuously withstands temperatures to 300°F (149°C). NEOLUBE® No. 100 does not contain Teflon.

NEOLUBE® No. 100 Is Not Normally Recommended For Use On Plastics (Particularly Thermoplastic Materials Where Stress Cracking Of The Plastic Could Result). However, Users Are Recommended To Confirm Compatibility With Such Substrates.  

NEOLUBE® No. 100 Is Not Recommended For Use In Pure Oxygen And/or Oxygen Rich Systems And Should Not Be Selected As A Sealant For Chlorine Or Other Strong Oxidizing Materials. For Safe Handling Information On NEOLUBE® No. 100, Consult The Safety Data Sheet.

Typical Applications

NEOLUBE® NO. 100 PIPE THREAD SEALANT is recommended for sealing thread fittings in fossil fuel, solar, and hydropower plant piping systems. Application areas include:

• Instrumentation
• Hydraulics
• Pumps and Valves
• Fuel Oil Piping
• Water/Coolant Systems
• Compressors
• Condensors
• Gas Lines
• Controls
• Electrical Conduit
• Low-Pressure Steam Lines        
• Rad-Waste Systems

Typical tech properties (uncured material)

• Chemical Type: Methacrylate Ester
• Solvent Content: None
• Appearance (Uncured): Smooth, creamy, off-white paste
• Cure: Anaerobic
• Technology :Acrylic
• Components: One Component – Requires No Mixing
• Specific Gravity: @ 25°C 1.08
• Flash Point: (TCC) >199.94°F – >(93.3°C)
• Toxicity: Low
• Application: Thread Sealing
• Strength: Medium
• Viscosity: Very High, Viscosity, Brookfield – RVF, 25 °C, mPa·s (cP):
• Spindle 7, speed 2 rpm 300,000 to 900,000

Lubricity

• K factor (torque/tension) @ 4950 Lbs (bolt load) 3/8 x 16 Grade 5 phosphate and oil fasteners
  • 100 treated fastener 0.16
  • Degreased fastener 0.20
  • As-received/oil fastener 0.15

Chemical Purity

• Halogen Content – 200 ppm (maximum)
• Chlorine Content – 200 ppm (maximum)
• Sulfur Content – 1500 ppm (maximum)

This pipe sealant contains no directly added Lead, Zinc, Mercury, Antimony, or Copper. The elements mentioned above are leachable or could be released by the breakdown of the sealant under expected environmental conditions.

DIRECTIONS FOR APPLICATION

1. Optimum results will be obtained on clean fittings. Clean all surfaces (external and internal) with reagent grade toluene, acetone, isopropyl alcohol, or methyl ethyl ketone, and allow to dry.
2. Apply a 360° bead of NEOLUBE® NO. 100 to the leading threads of the male fitting, leaving the first thread free. Force the material into the threads to thoroughly fill the voids. For bigger threads and voids, adjust product amounts accordingly and apply a 360° bead of NEOLUBE® NO. 100 on the female threads also.
3. Using accepted trade practices, assemble and wrench tighten fittings following the manufacturer’s recommendations.
4. Properly tightened fittings will seal instantly to moderate pressures. For maximum pressure and solvent resistance, allow NEOLUBE® NO. 100 to cure a minimum of 24 hours.
5. NEOLUBE® NO. 100 has been formulated to cure without heat or activators on stainless steel or other inactive surfaces. Higher temperatures will speed the cure; lower temperatures will retard the curing process.
6. The product cures when confined in the absence of air between close-fitting metal surfaces and prevents loosening and leakage from shock and vibration.  

TYPICAL PERFORMANCE OF CURED MATERIAL

Environmental Resistance

The following characteristics of NO. 100, PIPE THREAD SEALANT have been tested by an independent laboratory.

• Calculated estimates under constant temperature and radiation exposure reported the following judgments:
  • The product will provide a 40-year service life at ambient temperature not exceeding 122°F (50°C). @
  • 10-year performance life can be expected for service not exceeding 200°F (94°C). @
  • The pipe thread sealant can be safely used to seal threaded pipe joints for approximately one year at a temperature of 250°F (131°C).  Under high radiation and at temperatures greater than 250°F, long-term service life has not been predicted accurately. @
  • Under non-nuclear (standard radiation) environments, the thermal stability of this high-purity PIPE THREAD SEALANT NO. 100 can be expected at temperatures up to 400°F.

• Product is suitable for sealing low-pressure steam, not exceeding 300°F (149°C).
• NEOLUBE® NO. 100, PIPE THREAD SEALANT IS NOT RECOMMENDED FOR SEALING APPLICATIONS IN THE REACTOR PRIMARY CONTAINMENT AREAS; WHERE OPERATING TEMPERATURES FOR THE FITTINGS ARE GREATER THAN 300°F OR WHERE THE INDUSTRIAL STANDARD REQUIRES WELDED ASSEMBLIES.
• Where aqueous washing systems are used to clean the surfaces before bonding, it is vital to check for compatibility of the washing solution with the adhesive. In some cases, these aqueous washes can affect the cure and performance of the adhesive.

Solvent Resistance

Suitable for use with piping systems containing air, water, gas, hydrocarbons (aromatics), boric acid, alcohols, halocarbons (perchlorethylene, trichlorethylene), organic acids (citric and acetic), mild mineral acids and bases (diluted and cold), and aqueous solutions of lithium salts, hydrazine, and mercaptans.

Suitable Piping Materials

NEOLUBE® NO. 100 is recommended for use on Iron, Magnesium, Bronze, Nickel, Zinc, Aluminum, Austenitic, Stainless Steel, Carbon Steel, Monel, Cadmium, bright plating, anodized surfaces, passivated surfaces, and Titanium fittings. Elevated temperatures will cause threaded Copper to oxidize. Therefore, high-reliability Copper piping should be pickled before using any sealant.

TYPICAL PROPERTIES OF CURED MATERIAL

Physical Properties:  

• Time to achieve full strength on steel: 24 Hours @72°F (25°C) Minimum
• Coefficient of Thermal Expansion, ISO 11359-2, K-1: 0.1
• Coefficient of Thermal Conductivity, ISO 8302, W/(m·K): 0.1
• Specific Heat, kJ/(kg·K):  0.3

TYPICAL PERFORMANCE  OF CURED MATERIAL

Adhesive Properties:

• After 24 hours @ 25 °C Breakaway Torque, ISO 10964: 3/8 x 24 steel nuts (grade 2) and bolts (grade 2): N·m ≥0.9 (lb.in.) (8)
• Cured for 24 hours @ 93 °C, tested @ 25 °C, Breakaway Torque, ISO 10964: 3/8 x 24 steel nuts (grade 2) and bolts (grade 2): N·m ≥2.3 (lb.in.) (20)

DISASSEMBLY

Fittings assembled with NEOLUBE® NO. 100 may be disassembled with standard hand tools. Where hand tools do not work because of excessive engagement length or large diameters (over 1″), apply localized heat to approximately 250°C and disassemble while hot.  Cured products can be removed with a combination of soaking in a solvent and mechanical abrasion, such as a wire brush.

MATERIAL COMPATIBILITY

NEOLUBE® NO. 100 can be used with many metals, glass, ceramics, and thermoset plastics such as phenolic, polyester, etc.  NEOLUBE® NO. 100 will soften and sometimes craze thermoplastics, including ABS, polycarbonate, vinyl, methacrylates, etc. They will also soften varnish and lacquer finishes. Most baked enamel finishes are not harmed by initial contact but should be wiped clean within an hour of application. The cured sealant will not affect any of these materials.

STORAGE CONDITIONS

• Store material in the original container. Maintain in a cool, dry location.  
• Optimal Storage:  8°C to  21°C (46°F to 70°F).  Storage below 8°C (46°F) or greater than 28°C (82°F) can adversely affect product properties.  
• Material removed from containers may be contaminated during use. Do not return the product to the original containers. The information supplied is believed to be reliable for the time encompassed by the shelf-life period. Huron cannot assume responsibility for the product that was contaminated or stored under conditions other than those previously recommended.   NEOLUBE® NO. 100 has a shelf life of 24 months from the date outlined on the Certificate of Quality Conformance. Refer to the Certificate of Quality Conformance for the expiration date. 

SAFETY DATA

• Eye Irritant; may irritate sensitive skin. Contains methacrylate esters. In case of eye contact, flush with water for fifteen minutes; get medical attention. Wash after the skin contact.
• Excessive or repeated skin contact with this sealant may cause skin irritation. In case of irritation to sensitive skin, discontinue contact with the product. If a skin reaction occurs, discontinue use and consult a physician. To avoid skin contact, use the applicator nozzle provided. Keep material away from children. Use per a Safety Data Sheet.
• Use the customary safeguards in storing, handling, and applying materials of this type. A Safety Data Sheet is furnished with each shipment.

APPROXIMATE COVERAGE PER 50 CC TUBE

• 1/8″ Pipe – 750 Pipes
• 1/4″ Pipe – 500 Pipes
• 3/8″ Pipe – 300 Pipes
• 1/2″ Pipe – 150 Pipes
• 3/4″ Pipe – 100 Pipes
• 1″ Pipe – 50 Pipes

Product certification is available for each batch and shipment. NEOLUBE® products are not considered safety-related goods. As such, they are not designed, fabricated, handled, shipped, stored, etc., under a quality assurance program that complies with the requirements of 10CFR50, Appendix B, 10CFR21, or ANSI.

The data contained herein are furnished for information only and are believed to be reliable. However, we cannot assume responsibility for the results obtained by others over whose methods we have no control. Therefore, it is the user=s responsibility to determine suitability for the user=s purpose of any production methods mentioned herein and to adopt such precautions as may be advisable for the protection of property and persons against any hazards that may be involved in the handling and use thereof.

In light of the foregoing, Huron Industries, Incorporated specifically disclaims all warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose arising from the sale or use of Huron Industries, Incorporated=s  products. Huron  specifically disclaims any liability for consequential or incidental damages of any kind, including lost profits. The discussion herein of various processes or compositions is not being interpreted as representation that they are free from domination of patents owned by others or as a license under any Huron Industries=s patents which may cover such processes or compositions.  We recommend that each prospective user test the proposed application to determine its suitability for the purposes intended prior to incorporating any product or application in its manufacturing process using this data as a guide. This product may be covered by one or more United States or foreign patents or patent applications. NEOLUBE® is a Registered Trademark of Huron Industries, Inc.

Revised: 12/21/2022 09100Data

For further info or clarification on our Neolube tech guide and products, contact us today!

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1 SDS NO 100 Download 2022

Safety before and during Neolube 100 use

When handling the product and even before use can occur, all precautions should be taken to ensure that no contact is made with human skin. Ensure that persons with contact with Neolube have access to and are wearing protective gloves, eye protection, and face protection. 

Safety after Neolube 100 use

After the use of Neolube, contaminated work clothing should be disposed of or thoroughly cleaned. All clothing should not be allowed out of the workplace. All affected areas should be thoroughly washed after handling. Disposal of Neolube and/or its container must be done according to Federal, State/Provincial, and local governmental regulations. For information on this, contact your relevant government authorities.

Steps to take if contamination occur

If Neolube comes into contact with clothing or human skin ensure that you wash the contamination out with plenty of water. This should be done for at least 15 minutes. If the product comes in contact with your eyes, you should remove all contact lenses, if present, and  rinse. Medical care and attention should be undertaken in the cases of eye irritation, skin rash,  and/or other persistent negative reactions. Please note that Neloube and its material should be kept away from children and used in line with its Safety Data Sheet.

First-aid measures

• If inhalation occurs, move the individual outside to get fresh air. If the individual is not breathing or is having difficulty, artificial respiration and oxygen will be immediately required. Urgently seek medical attention.
• If skin contact occurs, immediately flush skin with plenty of water or soap if available. Remove clothing and footwear from the individual and dispose or properly wash. Get medical attention if irritation occurs. 
• If eye contact occurs, rinse immediately with plenty of water for 15 minutes. Individuals must seek medical attention in this occurrence.
• In the case of ingestion, it is important to note that it is not advisable to induce vomiting unless directed to do so by medical personnel. Immediately seek medical attention and do not give anything by mouth to an unconscious person.

Fire measures

Neolube contains hazardous combustion products in the form of oxides of carbon, sulfur, and nitrogen. Polymerization may occur at elevated temperatures or in the presence of incompatible materials. This can result in explosions or ruptures of storage containers. To extinguish flames, promptly make use of water spray (fog), foam, dry chemical, or carbon dioxide. Individuals involved in extinguishing must wear a self-contained breathing apparatus and full protective clothing. In case of fire, containers must be kept cool with water spray.

Incompatible materials

Strong acids, oxidizing agents, reducing agents, copper, iron, rust, aluminum, zinc, and oxygen scavengers are incompatible with Neolube. This product should be stored away from these materials. It is the user’s responsibility to determine the suitability of Neloube products for particular purposes and/or uses. Precautions are necessary for the safety and protection of those around.

For more information on Neolube safety measures, be sure to contact one of our representatives today!

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Warnings when using Molybdenum Disulfide

There are important warnings you should know when handling your Moly Kit. These include:

• Molybdenum Disulfide is highly flammable as a liquid and vapor. 
• It can be harmful if ingested
• It can irritate if exposed to skin contact and serious eye corrosions
• Suspected to damage the fertility of unborn child 
• Prolonged exposure to Molybdenum Disulfide can cause organ damage

How to prevent injury or harm when using Molybdenum Disulfide

The warnings may seem dire but there are simple solutions to preventing injury. Here are some tips:

• Ensure that you read and fully understand all the special instructions on your Moly kit. Contact a professional if you do not understand anything. It is always better to ask than to assume!
• Keep your Moly kit away from heat, open flame, or any source that can ignite. No smoking near the kit!
• Make sure the kit is tightly closed and sealed. Store in a well-ventilated area. This will prevent leaks or children from accessing the kit.
• When using Molybdenum Disulfide, remember that it is a highly flammable liquid and vapor. Ensure that you use non-sparking kits and explosion-proof electrical equipment. 
• Use protective clothing when handling such as eye protection, face masks, and ventilators. Do not expose skin to the solvent. Do not breathe any vapors or fume. 
• Wash hands thoroughly after handling. 

What to do if exposure occurs

If you have been exposed or know of someone who has been exposed to the harmful effects of the solvent, remove the person from the area of exposure, provide artificial respiration or CPR if needed, keep the victim warm and call an ambulance as soon as you can. If possible, remove any contaminated clothing and make the victim drink a glass of water while waiting on an ambulance or poison control center. If the victim is unconscious, do not give him/her water. This may lead to choking. 

The safe disposal of Molybdenum Disulfide

To safely dispose of Molybdenum Disulfide, follow local regulations and ensure it complies with OSHA Standard (29 CFR 1910.1200) and is consistent with the provisions of the United Nations Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS). Due to its highly flammable nature, empty containers can be dangerous. It is therefore imperial that empty cans are not pressurized, cut, exposed to any flame or sparks, or reused without proper cleaning. 

In the case of accidental spilling, the use of water spray to disperse the vapors should suffice. Do not walk through the spilled area. If possible, close off the area for cleanup. Ensure that non-flammable material is used during cleanup. The liquid should be properly cleaned with dry sand, then placed in a chemical waste container for disposal.

Consult the experts

When it comes down to using your Moly Kit, you might need help. This is where we come to your rescue. Heron Industries has a safety guideline and professional help to assist you when needed. Your safety is in good hands with us! For more information on your Moly Kit safety and products, give us a call today!

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Proper hygiene procedures must be followed

As with any chemically based adherent, good hygiene standards must be practiced. So, proper handwashing with soap and water when handling the product is always a good starting point to keep in mind when using Neolube No. 1260.

Proper protective clothing must be worn in a well-ventilated area. Respiratory protection should be used where there is insufficient ventilation when working with Neolube No.1260. Other protective clothing such as goggles, face masks, gloves, and non-slip boots should also be worn. Should accidental exposure occur, applicable first-aid measures should be administered. The following is a basic guideline of what should be done and when:

• In case of eye contact (causing the eye to tear or if redness or discomfort occurs), flush out with water for up to 15 minutes. If the symptoms get worse, then medical attention should be sought.
• If in contact with the skin, you should remove all contaminated clothing and wash the affected area with soap and water.
• In case of ingestion, wash the mouth out thoroughly with water and administer a glass or two of water to the patient if required. Do not, by any means, induce vomiting and seek medical attention promptly.
• If inhaled, remove the person into an area with good ventilation or into the open, and call for medical attention should the person experience any respiratory discomfort.

What to do in the event of a fire

In the case of a fire occurring in the presence of Neolube No.1260, standard fire-fighting methods should be employed to extinguish the flames using foam, carbon dioxide, and/ or dry powder. Firefighters on the scene should be aware of potentially hazardous gases that may be emitted and should ensure that full protective clothing and equipment is worn.

Proper Disposal of Neolube No. 1260

Proper disposal of waste by-products should be adhered to according to local regulations. Due to the insoluble nature of Neolube No. 1260 and to avoid any potential adverse effects on the environment through continuous disposal of the product in large quantities, waste materials should be disposed of in sealed, labeled containers. It is encouraged to reuse and recycle waste materials where you can.

Neoloube No. 1260 is a safe injectable sealant when used under the right conditions. As with any chemically- based product product-specific handling specifications should be adhered to as a precautionary measure to prevent any unforeseen or unnecessary accidents. 

For more information about Neolube No. 1260 and how it works, contact Huron Industries. 

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Nuclear lubricants with conductive properties

In either case, especially in the nuclear industry, the choice of lubricant usually includes – either as a main constituent or additive – chemical compounds with naturally high levels of conductivity. Molybdenum disulfide is one example of a natural semi-conductor that serves the purpose, while also conforming to the various tribological parameters of nuclear systems.

Neolube® No. 2

While there are many conductive lubricants used in other industries, such is in the automotive design and even the production of printers, the stringent requirements of the nuclear industry mean that lubricants with conductive properties must be suitable for use under extreme temperature and pressure. An example of this is Huron Industries’ Neolube® No. 2, a dry film lubricant used in nuclear applications as an anti-seize compound, thread lubricant, or for lubricating moving parts and rubbing surfaces. Aside from its high lubricity and provision of clean, long-wearing lubrication, it also acts as a resistance coating to provide conductivity and release properties to non-conductive substrates. Its conductivity is variable, making it versatile and suitable for use on various surfaces and in a range of tribological systems.

Huron Industries manufactures a range of nuclear lubricants – including conductive lubricants – for use in power generators and other nuclear facilities. Contact us for more information on our products.

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Tribology – the science of lubrication

Tribology is the study of friction, lubrication and wear. It provides an accurate method for the selection of lubricants. Tribological calculations take factors such as speed, temperature, load, type of motion and operating environment into account. These parameters make up the application’s specific tribological system. Once the nature of the tribological system has been identified, the appropriate lubrication theory is selected, enabling the precise choice of lubricant. The factors are analyzed as follows:

• Type of motion: the motion may be sliding, which requires the hydrodynamic lubrication theory for analysis, or rolling, which is analyzed using the elastohydrodynamic (EHD) theory. A combination of the two is also possible and would require a specific lubricant chemistry to optimize.

• Speed: The speed of components is broken up into three broad ranges – fast, moderate and slow. Within each of these categories, the optimum attributes of the required lubricant can be calculated using the equation nd_m=(ID+OD)/2, where nd_m= operating speed multiplied by mean bearing diameter, ID = inside diameter and OD= outside diameter. The Stribeck curve can also be used to find the appropriate lubricant for the system’s speed.

• Temperature: Every lubricant has a specific optimum temperature range. Taking the system’s temperature into account enables the engineer to eliminate all lubricant options that do not function well within range. In the conditions of nuclear reactors, this eliminates many options, leaving only a few specially formulated lubricants for use in extreme heat. 

• Load: Light loads may indicate systems that are sensitive to frictional torque, requiring a lubricant that minimizes fluid friction while protecting metal components in direct contact. Heavy loads may require lubricants with additives that protect against wear, pitting and galling.

• Operating environment: The various conditions of the operating system, such as the presence of moisture, or certain chemicals, or working in a vacuum, would all dictate the selection of specific lubricants suited to those conditions.

Tribological analysis accounts for all five of these variables to pinpoint the lubricant that will enable optimal functioning across all of them.

Huron Industries applies lubrication theory to formulate a range of lubricants that fit all the tribological requirements of nuclear reactors. Contact us for more information on our products. 

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High decomposition temperatures

All of this information can be distilled into a single indicator, and that is the lubricant’s decomposition temperature, i.e., the temperature at which a lubricant ceases to maintain its nature and function. Considering that conditions in nuclear reactors rise above 300°C, the solution would be to find hi-temp lubricants with decomposition temperatures that exceed that number. This isn’t always as straightforward as it seems. The higher the operating temperature gets, the more limited your options are for high-temperature lubricants. Most oils and greases are not viable above 400°C. This makes high-temperature lubricants the only viable option, in particular metal sulfides such as molybdenum disulfide, which maintains high levels of lubricity, extreme resistance to oxidation and thermal stability at temperatures above 600°C.

For the most part, to obtain a high-temperature lubricant that satisfies the nuclear industry’s needs in terms of viscosity/ lubricity, thermal degradation, and oxidation, specialized formulations need to be created, such as Huron Industries’ Neolube® No 1260. This can be used in critical service applications up to 635°C, exhibits excellent lubricity even as the temperature rises, and is ideal for containment and/or secondary side in nuclear applications. Aside from its thermal stability, it is also strongly resistant to radiation, which is another vital consideration for nuclear applications. 

Huron Industries is a woman-owned and woman-led industrial sealant and lubricant supplier for the nuclear industry. Our Neolube® No. 1260 is specially formulated for high-temperature applications and designed with the nuclear industry in mind. For more information on our range of lubricants for nuclear, aeronautic and military applications, contact us.

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Molybdenum disulfide in the nuclear industry

MoS₂-based products consistently test well for three properties that are vital to lubricants being used under the high temperatures, pressures and radiation levels of nuclear reactors: adhesion, thermal stability, and resistance to corrosion. 

Thermal stability is a crucial consideration for lubricants used in nuclear reactors since these environments typically reach temperatures of 300°C and higher. MoS₂ consistently meets the requirements for thermal stability at these temperatures.

Adhesion is another essential quality, since the lubricant needs to adhere to various working parts under extreme conditions. Moly performs admirably in this regard as well.  Even when it comes into contact with fluids such as trichloroethane, JP-4 jet fuel, synthetic hydraulic fluid and silicone damping fluid, it adheres powerfully to steel surfaces. Moly is also highly resistant to corrosion. When undergoing salt spray tests, it has been shown to protect stainless steel against 100 hours of consistent salt spray. 

Measured against various industry standards, as well as through extensive successful usage, molybdenum disulfide proves itself an excellent lubricant for the nuclear industry. Huron Industries markets a preparation of MoS₂ in isopropanol, a lubricant designed for applications where strict control of impurities is required. It can be used on threaded fasteners and other anti-seize applications of closely-fitted parts. It is certified to military specification MIL-L-24478 and comes in two forms: a premixed kit in an 8-ounce bottle with applicator brush and a kit that includes 1500 grams of MoS₂ with 1000ml of isopropanol.

Huron Industries is a woman-owned and woman-led industrial sealant and lubricant supplier for the nuclear industry. Our MoS₂/ isopropanol products have incredibly high lubricity and provide powerful resistance to extreme temperatures and pressures.

For more information on our range of dry film lubricants and other solutions for nuclear, aeronautic and military applications, contact us.

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