How to Effectively Use Anti-Seize Compounds

If you frequently handle heavy machinery or automotive parts, you understand the volatile nature of metal parts. Anti-seize compounds maintain smooth operation by preventing connecting parts from corrosion and galling. Because heavy machinery typically requires routine maintenance, quick part disassembly is ideal. Anti-seize compounds keep metal parts lubricated to reduce wear and prevent costly repairs. These simple tips will help you properly use these lubricating compounds for your maintenance jobs.

Choose The Right Anti-Seize Compound for the Job

When selecting an anti-seize compound, consider the type of application and material it is made of.

Types of Applications

There are different ways that this lubricant can be found.

• Spray-On Compounds: Use for hard-to-reach materials subject to high temperatures.
• Squeeze tubes: Use for precise applications on small parts.
• Brush Tubs: Use for applying lubricant to larger areas.

Types of Materials

Anti-seize formulations are made with different combinations of materials that are suited for specific uses.

• Aluminum: Suited for metal-on-metal parts
• Copper: Suited for extreme temperature parts
• Nickel: Suited for parts subject to high temperatures and corrosive chemicals

Copper formulations are often used for exhaust manifold bolts and spark plug threads. Nickel formulations are ideal for exhaust systems and stainless steel fasteners. Maintaining your parts with these lubricants can save you serious money. For example, the cost of a suspension replacement can be around $1,000 to $5,000.

Understand How to Properly Apply Anti-Seize Compound

When applying these lubricating compounds to coat the threads of bolts or fasteners, only use a small amount. Using too much anti-seize compound can actually attract debris making disassembly difficult. Applying extra lubricant does not provide added protection against corrosion or galling.

After application and reassembly, wipe off any excess lubricant to prevent attracting unnecessary contaminants to your bolt or fastener components. Anti-seize compounds are only necessary on surfaces where materials are connected.

Know When To Use and Avoid Anti-Seize Lubricant

When performing routine maintenance on your vehicle’s suspension, wheels, exhaust, or brake systems, an anti-seize compound should be applied to the nuts, bolts, and fasteners after disassembly. If you are replacing the spark plug, apply lubricant to the threads of the new plug.

If your bolts are damaged or have cross-threaded threads, avoid using anti-seize lubricants. The threads should be repaired prior to use. You also want to avoid using these compounds on exposed threads since this will attract dirt and particles.

Store Your Anti-Seize Compounds Properly

Proper storage of these lubricants is important for product shelf life and your personal safety. Keep anti-seize compounds away from open flames, extreme heat, and oxidizers. Common oxidizers include nitrates, hydrogen peroxide, and hypochlorite compounds. These chemicals are typically found in household cleaning products and fertilizers.

Choose High-Quality Anti-Seize Compounds

Always choose premium lubricants to protect your nuts, bolts, and fasteners from corrosive damage. Copper and graphite lubricant formulations are suitable for a wide range of automotive applications and are easy to use while spray-on lubricants are used for hard to reach areas.