Lubricant
A substance that causes something to be slippery and to move more smoothly. A lubricant is a substance introduced to reduce friction between surfaces in mutual contact, which ultimately reduces the heat generated when the surfaces move. It may also have the function of transmitting forces, transporting foreign particles, or heating or cooling the surfaces. Lubricant is an oily or slippery substance. A vaginal lubricant may be helpful for women who feel pain during intercourse because of vaginal dryness.
Types of Lubricant
Lubricants are usually divided into four basic classes.
Oils
A general term used to cover all liquid lubricants, whether they are mineral oils, natural oils, synthetics, emulsions, or even process fluids.
Greases
Technically these are oils, which contain a thickening agent to make them semi-solid. It is convenient, however, to include the anti-seize pastes and the semi-fluid greases under the same heading.
Dry lubricants
These include any lubricants, which are used in solid form, and may be bulky solids, paint-like coatings, or loose powders.
Gases
The gas usually used in gas bearings is air, but any gas can be used which will not attack the bearings, or itself decompose.
Properties
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