Due to the presence of weak Vander Waal force of attraction among the layer, they can slide over each other leading to the slippery nature of graphite. Hence, graphite is used as a better lubricant due to the slippery nature of graphite.
The main downside of graphite lubricant is that it doesn't stick to surfaces as well as oil. This means it needs to be re-applied often.
Graphite provides excellent lubrication up to 1,450 F with water vapor available. It can be used as an anti-seize compound up to 2400°F with an oxidation product of CO2. Because graphite requires water vapor for its lubricity, it is not used in a high vacuum environment including for deep-space use.
Graphite is infinetely better for lubricating a lock than WD-40 is. There are cases where WD-40 is useful, (rusty lock) but generally, try to use graphite.
Back on solid ground, graphite is used to lubricate gaskets, conveyor belts and transfer belts. It's an effective lubricant for gears, chains, wheels and rollers. Lack of residue also makes graphite useful for locks, where viscous lubricants like oil and grease are unsuitable.
Due to the presence of weak Vander Waal force of attraction among the layer, they can slide over each other leading to the slippery nature of graphite. Hence, graphite is used as a better lubricant due to the slippery nature of graphite.
Graphite will also work when it gets wet. In fact, sometimes graphite is mixed with water, or other liquids, to allow the graphite to flow into all parts of a mechanism. The water evaporates and the graphite remains to keep the parts well lubricated.
Teflon-based Lubricants
Polytetrafluoroethylene, or PTFE, is a Teflon-based lubricant that dries inside the lock to leave behind a non-stick, water-repellent film on all the surfaces. Since it's dry, it doesn't attract dust or dirt.
If you do use too much graphite powder, you'll cancel out its benefit over multi-purpose oil. It will start to gunk up the lock because the extra amount of graphite present is able to mix with dirt or dust, whereas contaminants would slide off with proper usage.
Don't use oil.
Oil might assist the moving parts of the motor in your car, but it is never a good idea to squirt it in a stiff lock. The oil will just combine with any grime already in the mechanism and compound the situation.
While graphite was the standard when the Speed Graphics were now, there is now a much better alternative: Molybdenum disulfide powder (Chemical symbol=MoS2).
Keep your locks in tip-top shape with 3-IN-ONE® Lock Dry Lube, formulated to keep lock mechanisms running smoothly and prevent lock rust and corrosion. Our lock lubricant dries quickly and leaves no oily residue, which prevents dirt and dust from collecting in your locks.
Silicone spray or powdered graphite are the most easily found lubricants, or Master Lock 2300D or 2305 lock lubricant should help the lock work more smoothly. Everyone has a preferred lock lubricant, for a variety of reasons- the most important thing is to not mix lubricants as this can gunk things up.
Summary of Nonlethal Effects of Exposure to Graphite. In humans chronically exposed to graphite, graphite pneumoconiosis might develop. The condition is characterized by a granulomatous reaction, interstitial fibrosis, and vascular sclerosis.
Naturally, like most dry lubes, graphite doesn't work well in applications where other oils, solvents, or water may be used, as these liquids tend to wash the graphite away.
Graphite is composed of Graphene, which is bonded by flat hexagonal lattices. These are formed in layers that are held together by weak Van Der Waal's forces. Due to the presence of layers that are slippery, and can slide over each other by weak Van Der Waal's forces, Graphite is used as a lubricant.
The best lock lubricant, according to locksmiths, is a Teflon-based lubricant. Graphite tends to gunk up over time and oil-based lubricants will collect debris.
The product should be kept in securely closed containers during transport and storage. Adequate long term storage conditions will result in a shelf life of 2 years from the date of manufacture. Storage should be in a warm dry place out and containers should be firmly closed.
Powdered graphite is the traditional material for lubricating pin tumbler locks. You can even buy powdered graphite that comes in a little tube with a thin nozzle specially designed for squirting the graphite powder into the keyway.
Should I use WD40 to lubricate door locks? The simple answer is you should not use WD40 to lubricate locks. WD-40 is one of the solvent-based lubricants and does not contain any lubricant and over time can make your lock even stickier by gumming the lock up.
For optimal performance, lubricate your lock with Master Lock's PTFE Lock Lubricant 2300D and 2311 which is ideal for use with all locks. Lubricate both the keyway and the shackle.
To lubricate the lock Safestyle recommends using graphite powder, the fine particles mean less residue than oils or sprays which can also be sensitive to hot or cold conditions. Put a little amount of graphite powder inside the door lock to ease any friction inside, making sure not to put in too much.
Artificial graphite is known for its stability and long-lasting properties in terms of shelf life. When stored properly, it can retain its quality and performance for an extended period. The shelf life can typically range from several years to even decades.
Graphite powder is a good lubricant especially in cold weather as it works well to prevent a lock from freezing.