Today, you can buy WD-40 at almost any hardware store or in the same shopping center. This tool is considered almost universal and is used in many cases: to lubricate the chain, if the hinge is rusted, hinges creak, or you need to clean off old paint.
1. What does WD mean and why 40
Water Displacement (this is the full name) is translated into Russian as "water displacer". As for "40", this indicator means that chemist Norman Larsen and his assistants from the 40th time were able to make a special composition that is able to deeply penetrate and displace moisture (water).
For decades, information was circulated that said that a tool called WD-40 can solve any everyday problem and even problems in the automotive field.
In fact, the tool was created with one main purpose - to squeeze out moisture. Indeed, this liquid perfectly corrodes rust on metal, but it cannot protect against corrosion, as well as lubricate the parts rubbing against each other, besides, it also displaces the grease that is already there, exposing the elements. It is worth remembering that if WD-40 was used, then the parts must be lubricated again with special grease. Therefore, in this case, there is no financial savings, as some users and sellers say.
The product, due to its ideal penetrating ability, copes well with threaded and tight connections. But after the agent evaporates, and this is what happens, the passage to moisture opens, respectively, the risk of corrosion damage in the places where it was increases increases.
The positive real characteristics inherent in WD-40 are high penetrating properties directly between the part and any substance of foreign origin, for example, dirt, glue, paint, grease, rust, bitumen, as a result of which the surface is perfectly cleaned. Also, an oil film forms on the surface, and short-term protection from dirt and dust appears.
2. Myths about the versatility of the WD-40
Many consider the remedy to be a panacea for everyday problems, thinking that it:
• degreases the surface;
• protects against corrosion;
• lubricates parts well;
• protects against low temperatures;
• suitable for all types of surfaces;
• antioxidant for contacts.
3. Why WD-40 should not be used
In the following cases, it is strongly discouraged to use WeDeshka:
• for lubricating weapons (meaning firearms);
• for lubrication of any locks (removes grease and wear, prevents uniform wear);
• for lubricating chains, regardless of the type of mechanism;
• brake pads and discs;
• gears;
• electrical wiring.
It should be remembered that this composition is prohibited for use in cases where long-term lubrication is required.
Thus, it becomes clear that this tool cannot be called a universal substance, but it is an excellent tool for cleaning surfaces from all kinds of contaminants.
The situation with the WD-40 shows that there should be a measure in everything. Read, why changing the oil every 10 thousand kilometers is not entirely correct.