Graphite Low Friction Coatings - Lubrication For Fasteners, Nuts and Bolts

Graphite low friction coatings for fasteners, nuts and"oscillating" conditions. More than tangential movement,
bolts? The answer is yes. And for a number ofsurfaces can lose contact in each cycle. The result
reasons.can be a devastating, hammering effect, impact
Begin with installation. Did you know most appliedfatigue. Though all these effects can be reduced with
torque goes into overcoming friction? That is right. Incarbon graphite.
the absence of lubrication, clamping pressures can beSimilar to molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) and tungsten
lost, measurably. Not to mention the difficulty indisulfide (WS2), the structure of carbon graphite is also
installation. Or the potential damaging torque applied. Allone of a layered lattice, a hexagonal form with strong
of which can initiate issues such as loosening, galling orcovalent bonds. In a normal air atmosphere condition,
early wear, or something catastrophic, like bolt shearing.where metal fasteners are similar material, lubrication
Is it the fault of the fastener? Not necessarily. So, thecan be exceptional. (When nut and bolt are dissimilar
next time you consider changing to a more expensivemetal, an electrical potential exists; consequently, MoS2
fastener grade, consider lubrication instead. Friction willor WS2 are better suited. Since graphite can be
be lower, as will be torsional stress.associated with stimulating galvanic corrosion.)
Dry film lubricants like graphite can play a significantSo, next time you experience failure of your fasteners.
role when vibrations are strong, dynamic loads are high.First, check for lubrication. And the next time you
Without, friction will be higher, failure imminent.design with nuts and bolts, do not forget the lubrication.
Consider microscopic movement under theseBenefits are many using graphite low friction coatings.