Everyone knows WD-40, but not everyone knows where it came from. In 1953 three members of staff at ‘Rocket Chemical Company’ set out to create a line of rust-prevention solvents and degreasers for use in the aerospace industry.
After 39 failed attempts to get their water displacing formula working, they finally nailed it at 40, thus WD-40 was born. Since then, WD-40 have been making strides with their continued expansion and their ability to improve upon and perfect their products. Along with the iconic WD-40 in its blue and yellow can with a red top, they have introduced a range of specialist lubricants with different features and uses. Here’s what they do, how they work and what they can be used for.
The one that started it all, the original product is a silicone-free, moisture displacement spray to protect metal surfaces from rust and corrosion. It frees up sticky mechanisms, and in addition, eliminates squeaks. This highly water-resistant lubricant can be used for everyday jobs, withstanding temperatures of -20C to +90C.
Great for using on pretty much everything anything that’s a little stiff or stuck such as latches on locks, creaky handles and hinges and anything and everything that needs a little help to get moving.
WD-40 High-Performance Silicone Lubricant
This Silicone lubricant is very popular due to its non-staining, hardworking formula that provides excellent lubrication making it ideal for internal application. Protecting against moisture; this WD40 doesn't attract dirt as some lubricants do. Great for use on high-pressure equipment this lubricant can withstand temperatures of -35C to +200C and can be used on metal, plastic, rubber and wood.
Apply to plastic and rubber fittings, this product adds a protective layer to prevent them from cracking. We also recommend applying this to door hinges, bearings, guide rails and patio door track to improve running. Can also be used to protect UPVC window and door latches and lubricate plastic hand tools.
WD-40 High-Performance White Lithium Grease
This grease is a thicker solution than most, that applies a white film to the surface, providing long term lubrication that doesn't drip or run. Perfect for metal to metal applications, it reduces the friction to ensure tools and equipment keep moving smoothly. Lithium grease provides long-lasting protection against rust and corrosion due to water and heat resistant, withstanding temperatures of -18C to +145C.
We recommend using this one for the internal mechanisms of mortice locks, window gearboxes and multipoint centre cases and gearboxes to provide long-lasting maintenance and functionality. The white film helps keep the mechanisms working more effectively when exposed to outside elements.
This solvent-based degreaser quickly removes grease, dirt, oil and grime without leaving residue behind. Works on contact and is easy to rinse away. Can be used on metal, exhaust hoods, flooring and many more surfaces.
Use this before you replace products on outdoor surfaces that are particularly dirty or greasy from being exposed to the elements. Or if you are working in a particularly dusty or dirty environment, apply this to your parts to protect them against the dirt and grease.
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This solution contains PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene) which provides enhanced lubrication and protection. It leaves behind a dry clear film that resists dirt, dust and oil. Â Quick-drying with an ability to withstand temperatures of -20C to +250C, this lubricant can be used on metals, plastic and glass.
Loosens up regularly used locks and latches, door and window tracks, chains and rollers, power tools, drill bits and lock mechanisms that have gotten sticky. You can also apply this to the surface you are about to cut to protect your tools from wear and tear and to your tool blades and drill bits to improve efficiency.
WD-40 Long Lasting Spray Grease
This long-lasting spray grease is non-drip with excellent adhesion and sealing properties. Used for a number of different applications on metal surfaces, this lubricant can withstand temperatures between -20C and +260C.
Ideal for metal on metal contact for lubrication and water displacement. Perfect for preparing screws, nails, nuts & bolts and chains before installing. Also suitable for use on outdoor metal gates and garage hardware.
This penetrant quickly works its way into hard to reach areas and rapidly loosens seized fixings as well as stuck or rusted moving parts. This lubricant can withstand temperatures between -20C and +90C and is designed for use on metals, alloys, rubber, plastic and most paints.
Use this on frozen, rusted or jammed gearboxes and padlocks to help loosen the mechanisms to once again allow required movement. Can also be used to release seized nuts and bolts and improve movement on hinges and fastenings.
WD-40 Fast Drying Contact Cleaner
This rapidly penetrating lubricant is designed to clean oil, dirt flux residue and condensation from sensitive electronics and electrical equipment. With its fast-drying formula designed to leave no residue, this lubricant is typically used on electrical equipment, contacts, plastic and rubber.
Ideal for cleaning most access control products such as switches, controls, circuit boards, keypads with stiff or stuck keys and entry devices. Can also be used on any electrical power tools to keep up their performance.
This solution also contains PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene) providing excellent lubrication and protection whilst reducing friction and wear. Extending the life of tools and equipment, this lubricant withstands temperatures between -20C and +100C and is designed for use on metals, glass, vinyl, rubber and plastic.
We recommend using this to protect your locksmith tools such as lock picks and pick guns to keep them in working order for longer.
WD-40 Multi-Purpose Cutting Oil
This lubricant is designed to reduce tip welding and maximise the life of cutting equipment. Ideal for use under extreme pressure and for use on cutting and drilling machinery and equipment
We recommend using this for your key cutting blades, saw blades, files and drill bits to prolong their life, improve their performance and protect them against consistent wear and tear.
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If you want to order some WD-40, click here to visit our lubricants category.
