Getting ready for a launch tomorrow and I can't find my lube for the o-rings and threads. Can someone tell me what can be used when one doesn't have what came with the casing? (I am using Aerotech if it matters.)
"Super Lube" is the brand name that I think comes withe the AT cases (and is what my on-site vendor sells)
Can probably find it at Ace, Home Depot, Lowes
looks like this:
There was some different stuff I found at ace one time that worked well, too but I can't find it to show you a picture.
I've been using Vaseline for 11 years now on all my Aerotech cases from 24/40 to 54/1706. Never had a problem or issue.
I bought the tube 11 years ago and still have most of it left. At the rate I'm using it, it'll probably last another 20 years or better.
From what I understand, the lube is there so everything seats correctly. Not to seal. So any lube should work, but using a good one really makes a difference in clean-up.
In a pinch you can rub the side of your nose. It does not take much. If you use Vaseline, use it very sparingly since it can melt and migrate at a lower temperature then the alternatives.
You can use spit for the lube, right? I told this to the person who was working with me on my 2 stage rocket, and he asked why I was spitting on my orings...
I have some grease with molybdenum in it. I've heard mixed things about that type of grease. What are peoples thoughts? For now it would be 29/360 and smaller. I've been using Vaseline but I don't like it much. Last motor I flew (G75J) the forward closure was very sticky with something wherei had put Vaseline.
Go to Auto Zone and get some of this...
I have used it for G reloads to M reloads.
It's nice to have lots cause I like to coat the inside
of my cases for easy clean up.
Just make sure to tear down not too long after
firing as it tends to get a little 'sticky'.
The Super Lube is a good choice. When I first started I would use vaseline but did hear about issues that people had and stopped using it. I never had any problems but it was a personal choice. The stuff I use now is the Dow Corning DC 4 Electrical Insulating Compound. Again, just a personal preference and it has worked great in all the motors I have launched and cleaned up.