What is WD40 And Why You Should Not Use It On Your Clock

 WD-40 is a multi-purpose product primarily known as a penetrating oil and lubricant. Its name stands for "Water Displacement, 40th formula," reflecting its origin as a water-displacing spray developed in 1953 by the Rocket Chemical Company. The main ingredients typically include:

• Aliphatic hydrocarbons (50-75%): These act as solvents to dissolve rust and grime.
• Petroleum base oil (10-25%): Provides lubrication to reduce friction.
• Carbon dioxide (2-3%): Used as a propellant in aerosol cans.
• Other proprietary additives for corrosion resistance and penetration.

WD-40 is marketed for a wide range of uses, including loosening rusted or stuck parts, displacing moisture, protecting metal surfaces from corrosion, and providing temporary lubrication.
How Does WD-40 Work?

WD-40's functionality stems from its key properties:

1. Penetration: The low-viscosity solvents in WD-40 creep into tight spaces, such as rusted bolts or seized mechanisms, breaking down rust and corrosion to free stuck parts.
2. Lubrication: The petroleum-based oil leaves a thin film that reduces friction between moving parts, making them operate more smoothly.
3. Water Displacement: WD-40 repels moisture, preventing rust and corrosion by forming a barrier on metal surfaces.
4. Cleaning: Its solvents dissolve grease, dirt, and adhesives, making it effective for cleaning surfaces.
5. Corrosion Protection: Additives form a protective layer to shield metal from environmental damage.

These properties make WD-40 versatile for tasks like loosening screws, silencing squeaky hinges, or protecting tools from rust.

Why WD-40 Is Not Good for Clocks. Using WD-40 on clocks, especially mechanical or antique ones, is generally discouraged by horologists (clockmakers) for several reasons:

1. Attraction of Dust and Debris:
   • WD-40 leaves a sticky residue as its volatile solvents evaporate. This residue attracts dust, dirt, and other particles, which can accumulate in the clock's delicate gears and pivots.
   • Over time, this debris mixes with the oil to form a gummy sludge, increasing friction and wear on the clock’s components.
2. Improper Lubrication:
   • Clocks require specialized, high-quality lubricants (e.g., synthetic clock oils or greases) with specific viscosity and stability tailored to their precise mechanisms. These lubricants are designed to stay in place and resist breakdown over long periods.
   • WD-40 is a lightweight, temporary lubricant not formulated for the sustained, low-friction needs of clock movements. It evaporates or degrades quickly, leaving parts unlubricated and prone to wear.
3. Potential Damage to Components:
   • The solvents in WD-40 can dissolve or degrade existing clock oils, stripping away proper lubrication and causing metal-to-metal contact.
   • In antique clocks, WD-40 may harm delicate materials like lacquered finishes, wooden cases, or plastic components, leading to cosmetic or functional damage.
4. Over-Penetration:
   • WD-40’s penetrating properties can cause it to spread beyond the intended application area, reaching parts of the clock (e.g., balance wheels or escapements) where lubrication is harmful. This can disrupt the clock’s timing and accuracy.
5. Short-Term Fix, Long-Term Harm:
   • While WD-40 may temporarily free a stuck clock mechanism or reduce squeaking, its effects wear off quickly. The residue and lack of proper lubrication accelerate wear, leading to costly repairs or permanent damage.
     

Recommended Alternatives for Clocks For clock maintenance, use:

• Synthetic clock oils (e.g., Horace Whitlocks Clock Oil ), designed for specific clock parts like pivots, gears, or mainsprings.
• Clock greases for high-friction areas like winding mechanisms.
• Professional cleaning solutions to remove old oils and debris without damaging components.

Best Practice: Clocks should be cleaned, lubricated, and serviced every 3-5 years to ensure longevity. If WD-40 has already been applied, the clock should be disassembled, thoroughly cleaned to remove residue, and properly re-lubricated.
ConclusionWD-40 is a versatile product for many household and industrial tasks, but its properties make it unsuitable for clocks. Its sticky residue, improper lubrication, and potential to damage delicate components can harm a clock’s mechanism and longevity. For clock care, stick to specialized lubricants and professional maintenance to keep timepieces running smoothly.

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