Anti-seize lubricants are a staple in most automotive repair shops. Mechanics use them in a variety of applications, yet many don’t give much thought to the different types and their best uses. Before you reach for a tub of grease, take time to learn about some of the different types of lubricants and when to use them.
Copper Anti-Seize
Copper is one of the most widely used lubricants in automotive applications. When mixed with graphite and a heavy binder, it serves as an excellent all-purpose anti-seize grease. Some of the top qualities of copper-based grease include:
- High temperature tolerance
- Excellent ability to prevent galling and seizing
- Electrical conductivity
- Protective corrosion resistance
- High heat transfer rate
Where to Use It
Copper grease is a go-to staple in any auto shop. It is well-suited to a wide range of applications and can withstand most engine temperatures.
Because of its ability to withstand high temperatures, copper grease is great for use on numerous automotive components. It is an excellent choice for preventing corrosion and seizing on flanges, battery terminals, exhaust assemblies, wheel nuts, and other automotive fasteners. You may also find it useful for coating brake components.
Graphite Lubricants
Graphite is a form of carbon. It has a sheet-like structure, with each one firmly bonded to itself but also sliding easily past others. This gives it a slippery feel and makes it an excellent lubricant for high-pressure applications. Many copper anti-seize products are blended with graphite to improve performance.
Where To Use It
You can use graphite or graphite-blend grease on most common auto applications. It is great for preventing corrosion on threaded fasteners and making them easier to remove down the road.
Spray-On Grease
Spray-on grease products are an excellent choice when you need to apply anti-seize in hard-to-reach areas. They offer a convenient application that won’t make a mess. However, you must take care to avoid excess overspray which could cause contaminants to stick to surrounding surfaces.
Where To Use It
Reach for a spray-on grease if you want to prevent corrosion and seizing on a hard-to-reach component. Because some spray greases are also well-suited for high temperatures, they can also be good for projects where you expect extreme operating conditions.
High-Temperature Anti-Seize
Some engine components, especially exhaust systems, can reach temperatures well over 1,500 degrees. Those conditions would cause average grease products to quickly break down. However, high-temperature anti-seize grease is designed to handle just those conditions. Since many high-temp products are copper-based, you can also use them in general repairs.
Where To Use It
Some places you can benefit from having a high-temperature lubricant include:
- Highly corrosive environments
- Components that reach extreme temperatures
- Most automotive fasteners, including studs, bolts, slides, and bearings
Premium Quality Anti-Seize Compounds
Anti-seize grease compounds help reduce corrosion while preventing seizing and galling in automotive connections. They also reduce the required torque for fasteners and make future part removal easier. When you need professional-grade grease, shop ROGO Fastener.