Introduction- Silicone Oil
Silicone oil is a similar substance to traditional hydrocarbon oils. However, the difference between these two oils is that silicone oil is chained with a molecular chain of siloxane units whereas hydrocarbon oil is chained with a molecular chain of carbon units. Silicone oil is non-toxic, non-flammable, odorless and tasteless in nature. Silicone oils are used in various industries such as medical, laboratories, food companies and pharmaceuticals. The linear polysiloxane chains of silicone oils are arranged in a spiral structure which makes them easy to slip and slide over each other. Silicone oils are known for offering excellent thermal stability even at high temperatures. They are flexible and easy to flow.
Introduction- Silicone Grease
A grease is a thick and oily substance commonly used as lubricant. Grease is made up of three components i.e. synthetic oil, thickening agent and additives that keeps it in a semi-solid state. The percentage of synthetic or base oil in this component is 80-95%, the percentage of thickener is 5-20% and the percentage of additives is 0-10%. Thickeners are the soaps which reduce the friction between moving parts and holds the oil in reserve till the need of lubrication. However, thickeners tend to leave the oil in situations such as vibration, movement and temperature changes. Additives are used to complement the base oils and save the parts from rust and wear. Additives consist of high viscosity which decreases gradually in stressful scenarios and becomes oily.
Purpose of Silicone Oil
Silicone oils are used for variety of purposes. They are used as vitreous liquid in eye treatments and operations. This is because silicone is one of the purest forms of oils. It is also used as component in antiflatulent medicines. It is useful for decreasing gas in human digestion system. It is also used as a component in skin creams and ointments as it is water repellant. It creates a layer over the skin and protects it from drying out. Creams with silicone oils as a component also cures dermatitis and burns due to their transcutaneous permeability.
Purpose of Silicone Grease
Silicone grease is mostly used in the preservation and lubrication of rubber parts such as O-rings. It prevents the rubbers from softening. However, it should not be used with silicone rubber. Silicone grease works well as an erosion inhibitor in non-metal to metal contact areas. It is also soluble in organic solvents such as xylene, toluene, chlorinated hydrocarbons, mineral spirits, etc. However, it is insoluble to substances such as water, ethanol and methanol. Pure silicone grease is also used for plumbing seals and faucets in the industrial sector. Silicone grease is also known for 2 purposes which are providing excellent resistance against water and providing excellent resistance against chemicals and UV radiations.
Difference Between Silicone Oil and Silicone Grease
It is important to consider the formulaic differences and uses while determining the difference between silicone oil and silicone grease. Silicone grease is one of the most popular lubrication products around the globe, known for its multi-function properties. Silicone grease is heat and water-resistant. It protects the metals from rust and corrosion. It also delivers excellent performance in extreme temperatures up to 150° C. On the other hand, silicone oil can be used for a variety of applications. It is most compatible with rubber but can also be used on the surfaces made up from metals, wood, plastics, etc. It also prevents the surfaces from corrosion and rust due to its waterproof formula. It also reduces stickiness and friction in the applied area. Silicone oil removes dust, dirt, grimes, etc. and ensures the long-term protection and maintenance of the surfaces.
Specifications of Silicone Grease
Silicone grease consists of some specifications which makes them more reliable and ideal for both low and high temperatures. This grease is inflammable and offers water wash resistance as well. It is safe as it does not react to petrochemicals. It can also be used in electrical connections due to its user-friendly nature and ability to adapt in all atmospheres.
When to Use Silicone Grease
Silicone grease tends to provide excellent lubrication on various material pairs such as plastic-plastic, rubber-rubber, plastic to rubber, plastic to metal and metal to rubber. Below stated are some of the uses of silicone grease:
- In the lubrication of door hinges, window tracks, drawer slides, etc.
- In the lubrication of rubber gaskets and kitchen appliances for preventing leaks and enhancing flexibility.
- In the repairing of worn-out refrigerator seals.
- Can be applied to O-rings and sink faucets.
- In lubrication and conditioning of rubber components of cars and other vehicles.
- In the lubrication of screw threads to prevent them from corrosion.
- In the lubrication of seals and plunger shafts of the fountain pens.
When to Not Use the Silicone Grease
Though silicone grease is a versatile substance, it is not advisable to be used for metal-to-metal lubrication. Apart from this it cannot be used on painted or varnished surfaces because of its chemical resistance properties. Also, silicone rubber should not be used on silicone rubber though it is considered ideal for lubrication of rubbers.
Take Away
This is a brief explanation about silicone oil, silicone grease, their purpose and the difference between them. There is also information about when to use silicone grease and when to avoid its usage. We hope this information will be effective for you. Please let us know through your valuable feedback and the suggestion in the drop box.