Why is graphite a good lubricant

Leshchinsky, M. Lvovsky, I. Lapsker, Y. Volovik, Superior tribological properties of powder materials with solid lubricant nanoparticles. Wear 7 , — a CrossRef Google Scholar. Leshchinsky, I. Volovik, O. Nepomnyashchy, Tribological properties of WS 2 nanoparticles under mixed lubrication. Wear 7 , — b CrossRef Google Scholar. Tao, Z. Jia, X. Kang, The ball-bearing effect of diamond nano particles as an oil additive. Tian, C. Chen, L. Chen, Q. Huo, Microstructures and wear properties of composite coatings produced by laser alloying of Ti—6Al—4V with graphite and silicon mixed powders.

Wang, B. Xu, J. Skip to content. The solution? Mix it with a solvent. The two main dry lubricants are graphite and molybdenum disulfide. They offer lubrication at temperatures higher than liquid and oil-based lubricants operate. Dry lubricants are often used in applications such as locks or dry lubricated bearings. Does Moly grease contain graphite? Why is graphite lubricant better than molybdenum disulphide?

In its appearance and feel, molybdenum disulfide is similar to graphite. Indeed, like graphite, it is widely used as a solid lubricant because of its low friction properties and robustness.

Like graphite, MoS2 has a low friction coefficient, but, unlike graphite, it does not rely on adsorbed vapors or moisture. What is graphite powder used for? Uses and Disadvantages Graphite in its powdered form is used in the paints, and other similar materials for coatings. This powder is also used to increase the carbon content in certain metals like steel.

It also makes a good lubricant, that can protect surfaces against friction and related damage. What does Graphite do for locks? Powdered graphite is the traditional material for lubricating pin tumbler locks.

It is typically used as a suspension in oil, water or other. Both diamond and graphite are made of carbon. The sheets of carbon become bonded by weaker intermolecular forces. Simply insert the straw which is normally supplied with lubricants such as WD40 into the lock cylinder and spray away! The parts from an average mechanical pencil are sufficient to pick a lock at least once, and perhaps even a few times providing you know what you are doing.

WD Facts: WD is a great light lubricant for locks.