What is best lubricant for HF acid service 1

[BrianOk]

We manufacture valves that use lubricants on gaskets, threads, and moving part. Does anyone know what type of lubricant would be the best in HF acid service? Thanks.

 

[aspearin1]

I'd suggest self-lubricating pieces. I believe PTFE would be a better bet. From my experience, I wouldn't count on any organic lubes to withstand HF exposure. Some polymers, yes... but lubes, I'm not sure of.

Aaron Spearin, EIT
ChemE, M.E.
"The only constant in life is change." -Dan Andia; 1999, Chemical Engineering Progress

 

[sshep]

I think we are using Desco Polymel 410

Try this:

http://www.grmvalve.com/products/Chemola/f_lubricants-m.htm

 

[Montemayor]

BrianOk:

I know for a fact that the recognized experts in this field - such as DuPont Chemicals - never go to their valve manufacturers for recommendations on what lubricants to use on HF. DuPont produces a bunch of HF and has done a bunch of research and development on which are the safest and best lubricants for their products - it's in their interest to do this and not leave it up to a non-stakeholder in the business. I also know that DuPont is willing to share this information and does so by the instructions it issues on the proper handling and transport of its chemical products. All Halogens -particularly Fluorine - are typically hazardous and potential chemical reaction sources.

My first and prime source for the best and most intelligent lubricant to use on HF would be DuPont or another major HF producer. Trust me, you or your company probably couldn't justify the quantity and quality of HF research that DuPont has done in this field - down to the last detail, such as the proper lubricants to use.

Art Montemayor
Spring, TX

 

[moltenmetal]

Have a look at Dupont Krytox lubricants. They're already fluorocarbons, so they probably won't be bothered much by the HF itself.