Copper, Nickel, Aluminum or Food Grade? Choosing the Right Anti-Seize

Anti-seize compounds do three jobs: they lubricate threads during assembly, protect against corrosion in service and make disassembly possible years later. The solid particles in the compound are what separate one product from another.

Copper-based

Best for: general high-temperature bolting, exhaust systems, flanges and steam lines.

Copper and graphite give excellent lubricity and heat protection. Avoid copper on stainless steel in corrosive environments and where copper could cause galvanic corrosion with aluminum parts.

Our pick: HUSKEY™ 341 Copper Anti-Seize, rated up to 1800°F with steam and chemical resistance.

Aluminum-based

Best for: general-purpose industrial use and plant maintenance where copper is not allowed.

Aluminum-based compounds are economical and work well across a wide range of fasteners.

Our pick: HUSKEY™ 577 Aluminum Anti-Seize, rated up to 1800°F.

Nickel-based

Best for: stainless steel, high-alloy fasteners, acidic environments and extreme heat.

Nickel compounds contain no copper or lead, which makes them the standard choice for stainless and for chemical and petrochemical plants.

Our pick: HUSKEY™ 684 Nickel Anti-Seize, rated to 2600°F with no sulfur, lead, copper or halogens.

Food grade

Best for: food and beverage plants, pharmaceutical processing and potable water systems.

Food-grade compounds use solids and carriers that are acceptable for incidental food contact.

Our pick: HUSKEY™ FG-1800, an NSF H1 registered anti-seize and thread sealant rated to 1800°F.

Three rules for any anti-seize

1. Adjust your torque. Anti-seize lowers friction, so the same torque produces more clamping force. Follow the fastener or equipment maker’s torque values for lubricated threads.
2. Less is more. A thin, even coat on the male threads is enough.
3. Don’t mix products. Clean old compound off before switching to a different type.

See all anti-seize and thread sealants.