MOLYKOTE® 101 - Compounds Explained

Compound lubricants are unique, versatile solutions for lubrication & protection where a conventional grease either does not or cannot work. The basic number of ingredients between a grease and a compound is the same, however the chemical composition of those ingredients varies enough to make them behave differently.   The basic make up of any grease or compound consist of a lubricating base oil, thickener system, and a range of specialty additives to enhance and tailor performance for a particular application. 

If the chemical composition between a compound and a grease are so similar, how can you be sure you select the right solution for your piece of equipment? Here's a quick cheat sheet to help highlight the benefits of both lubricant types. 

There are many applications where a MOLYKOTE® Compound can deliver extended term performance and protection - but there are a few applications in which they are not well suited. It's important to run through a few key parameters for where and how you plan to use the silicone compound lubricant. 
Load, Environment, Temperature, and Speed - or LETS for short - the major parameters to keep in mind are listed below: 

Equipment Parameters

Machine Element Operational Load  Temperatures (high & low) Velocity of friction or movements

Expected Life or Run-time Used Material  Compatibility with environment  Regulatory concerns (food-safe)

The MOLYKOTE® Compounds are ideal solutions in a wide range of specialty equipment and applications where moisture or electricity is involved. The MOLYKOTE® lubricants can deliver exceptional performance in applications including: 
 

• Moisture resistant barrier on electrical plugs or equipment
• Dielectric insulator or lubricant on high current switches 
• Release agent for both plastic & metal surfaces
• Mold treatment for release 
• O-ring & valve lubricant at ambient or high temperature
• Vacuum & pressure system sealant (HVG)
• Applications with NSF, FDA, or USDA requirements like NSF 61

 
It's important to keep in mind that the MOLYKOTE® compounds should not be used in metal-on-metal lubrication or in applications where a silicone rubber is present, as the silicone in the compound can cause the elastomer to swell.  In this instances, a MOLYKOTE® grease is a better solution.