Silicone (was CP contamination)

[Robert Goodale]

You are correct, WD-40 should absolutely NEVER be used in pianos.  However
it is not diesel fuel.  Although it has an oil based catalyst, the "evil"
component is silicone. Silicone is not a liquid, but rather a collection
of micro-fine particles.  They work somewhat like tiny ball bearings which
is where the lubrication properties come from.  Unfortunately once the oil
component has evaporated these particles are all that remain and are very
susceptible to migration.  They can easily become airborne or fly out of
moving parts and go anywhere they want, including the pin block.  The oil
component is also very harmful to glue and therefore detrimental to
bushings.  Acids can also deteriorate the felt.  The long of the short of
it is:  DON'T USE IT!!  That is why Protek was invented specifically for
pianos.

Rob Goodale, RPT
Las Vegas, NV



Ralph & Frances Thorn wrote:

> Does it smell?  This sounds to me like WD- 40 contamination.  WD - 40
> is more-or-less Diesel oil.  Some "less experienced" in this field use
> it for anything that should move.  Should be kept out of pianos.