Dielectric grease is a silicone-based lubricant that seals moisture and prevents corrosion on electrical connectors. It can withstand high temperatures and is commonly used in automotive spark plug wires, recreational and utility vehicles, and aircraft electrical systems. However, it can irritate skin and eyes and should not be used on silicone-based O-rings or wiring. Additionally, it should not be applied to the threads of oxygen cylinders or valves used on oxygen systems as it could cause an explosion or fire.
Dielectric grease is a non-conductive silicone-based grease designed to seal in moisture and prevent corrosion on electrical connectors. It also interrupts the flow of electrical current, which makes it great for lubricating and sealing the rubber parts of electrical connectors. It is commonly used in automotive spark plug wires, recreational and utility vehicles, and aircraft electrical systems.
Physical properties
This material is a translucent gray lubricant that does not dissolve in liquids such as ethanol, methanol, mineral oil and water. Can be dissolved with Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK) and white spirit. Dielectric grease affects silicone rubber over time, so it’s not always a good choice to use it on silicone-based O-rings or wiring.
It can withstand high temperatures, making it a good choice for engine compartments and similar places. Many dielectric greases are rated to operate at temperatures up to 392°F (200°C), and some can operate up to 500°F (260°C). While there are other greases that can operate at these temperatures, they may not impede the flow of electric current the way dielectric grease does.
it is used
Dielectric grease is widely used as a spark plug sealant in petrol or diesel engines, as well as on multi-pin connector seals in vehicle and marine electrical systems. When used with spark plugs, it is applied to the rubber part of the spark plug wire. This helps the boot slide over the plug’s ceramic insulator and prevents dirt or moisture from contaminating the seal and cutting off the electrical current.
In addition to being used to seal rubber covers on electrical connections, dielectric grease also prevents corrosion when applied directly to metal connectors. While it works well for this purpose, it can sometimes cause a connection to stick if not all of the grease is pushed out between the contact points inside the connector. It is also often used to lubricate other engine-related parts, such as rotors, distributor caps, and speedometer cables. It can also be used in other situations where electrical connections may be exposed to moisture and dirt, such as exterior lights, satellite TV installations, trailer hitch wiring and battery terminals.
Precautions
Silicone-based lubricants, including dielectric grease, can irritate skin and eyes, so users should wear protective eyewear and gloves when using it, and should promptly wash any skin or clothing that comes into contact with it. At high temperatures, it can create formaldehyde, which irritates the eyes and respiratory system and is associated with cancer. Those purchasing this product should consider the temperature conditions in which they need it to work, as some formulations are better for higher temperatures than others.
Greases and lubricants in general can catch fire and burn when exposed to a lot of oxygen. This is a particular risk when used in medical devices, compressed air systems or oxygen systems in aircraft. This type of grease should never be applied to the threads of oxygen cylinders or valves used on oxygen systems, as the rapid reaction between it and oxygen could cause an explosion or fire. Also, most greases can attack paint and coatings on machines or vehicles if left on for a long time. Any excess product should be cleaned up, including any spills on floors, to avoid the risk of slipping.
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