DIELECTRIC GREASES

Dielectric grease is a non-conductive, silicone grease designed to seal out moisture and, therefore,
prevent CORROSION on electrical connectors. Being non-conductive, it does not enhance the flow
of electrical current. This property makes it an ideal lubricant and sealant for the rubber portions of
electrical connectors.

Dielectric greases and insulating fluids have a high dielectric strength and are designed to reduce
friction, binding and wear. Dielectric greases and insulating fluids exclude water and are used in
transformers, capacitors, electric discharge machining (EDM), and electrical devices.

Dielectric grease is typically a translucent, grey substance that is insoluble in substances such as
ethanol,methanol, mineral oil, and water. It is soluble, however, in the industrial solvent methyl ethyl
ketone (MEK) and mineral spirit. It is important to note that dielectric grease will melt silicone rubber
over time, and thus should not be used on connectors, such as o-rings, that are made of this rubber.

While the indicated use of dielectric grease calls for it to be used only on the non-metal parts of a
connection, it has been shown to be effective at preventing corrosion when applied directly to the
metal connectors as well. Care should be taken when using it in this way, because this application
can, in some instances, cause the connection to stop working. A common reason for such a failure is
that the grease has not been pushed entirely out of the way between the two points of contact.

Dielectric grease is most widely used as a sealant for spark plugs, and is applied to the rubber boot
of the plug wire. The grease not only helps the boot slide onto the ceramic portion of the plug, but
prevents dirt, moisture, sand, and other foreign objects from contaminating the seal, and
compromising the electrical current. Dielectric grease is also commonly used on the gaskets of multi-
pin connectors in car and marine engines.

It can withstand high temperatures, making it an ideal substance for use in engine compartments and
other similar locations. Most standard brands of dielectric grease are rated to 392 F (200 C), and
many can operate at up to 500 F (260 C). A typical tube of grease generally sells for around $5 US
Dollars (USD) per .33 ounce (9.4 gram) tube.

Aside from sealing spark plugs, dielectric grease is often used to lubricate other engine-related parts,
such as rotors, distributor caps, and speedometer cables. It is also employed in many other
situations where electrical connections may be exposed to moisture and dirt. These can include
outdoor lights, satellite television installations, trailer hitches, and battery terminals.

Dielectric greases and insulating fluids include a variety of components for lubricating, coating,
and sealing applications. Dielectric greases and insulating fluids also provide oxidation and heat
stability, and can typically withstand a wide temperature range without breaking down. Dielectric
grease is used to dissipate heat from some electronic components, and is also useful in
lubricating mechanisms such as slide contact switches and relay contacts. Dielectric greases
and insulating fluids used in electrical transformers also can include other components to
enhance the life and function of the transformer oil. Insulating fluid used in transformers may
also contain metal passivators or deactivators to prevent the dissolution of metals into the
transformer oil, such as copper, bronze or iron.
Ingredients
1. Silicone oil and silica are the main ingredients in dielectric grease.

Function
2. Dielectric grease is used on metal electrical connections to keep out moisture and prevent
corrosion. It's often employed to provide a seal and protect rubber gaskets on electrical
connectors.

Uses
3. Dielectric grease is often used in spark plugs. It's applied to the rubber boot of the plug wire,
helping it slide easily into the plug's ceramic insulator. The grease not only helps seal the rubber
boot but also prevents it from adhering to the ceramic.
 Benefits
4. Because dielectric grease is non-conductive, it doesn't allow for any electricity to bleed off
from the connection. It's also designed to withstand extremely high temperatures.

Considerations
5. Never apply dielectric grease to an oxygen sensor connector. Over time, the grease will
compromise the sensor and prohibit proper functioning.