Penetrating oil, also known as penetrating fluid, is very low-
viscosity
The viscosity of a fluid is a measure of its resistance to deformation at a given rate. For liquids, it corresponds to the informal concept of "thickness": for example, syrup has a higher viscosity than water.
Viscosity quantifies the int ...
oil
An oil is any nonpolar chemical substance that is composed primarily of hydrocarbons and is hydrophobic (does not mix with water) & lipophilic (mixes with other oils). Oils are usually flammable and surface active. Most oils are unsaturated ...
. It can be used to free rusted mechanical parts (such as nuts and bolts) so that they can be removed, because it can penetrate into the narrow space between the threads of two parts. It can also be used as a cleaner; however, it should not be used as a general-purpose
lubricant
A lubricant (sometimes shortened to lube) is a substance that helps to reduce friction between surfaces in mutual contact, which ultimately reduces the heat generated when the surfaces move. It may also have the function of transmitting forces, t ...
or a
corrosion
Corrosion is a natural process that converts a refined metal into a more chemically stable oxide. It is the gradual deterioration of materials (usually a metal) by chemical or electrochemical reaction with their environment. Corrosion engi ...
stopper. Using penetrating fluids as general-purpose lubricants is not advisable, because such oils are relatively
volatile. As a result, much of the penetrating oil will evaporate in a short amount of time, leaving little residual lubricant.
Other uses include removing chewing gum and adhesive stickers, and lessening friction on metal-stringed musical instruments.
External links
How to make penetrating oil by Rob Goodier on "Engineering for change".
category:oils
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