A Molybdenum Disulfide coating (also known as Molybdenum Disulphide, MoS2, and Moly) is one of the most commonly used solid film lubricants in applications where load carrying capacity, operating pressure, and/or coefficient of friction are primary concerns. Its lamellar lattice molecular structure helps it to create a permanent bond with the surface it is applied to.
What exactly is an MoS2 Coating?
An MoS2 coating is a dry film lubricant that works by intrinsic slippage of the sulfur atoms (weak Van der Waals forces). This helps reduce wear on the parts and improve coefficient of friction. The coating is made up of high purity molybdenum disulfide powder. Our Molybdenum Disulfide coatings do not require thermal curing and are thoroughly bonded to the base of the coated part.
| Coating | Coefficient of Friction | Thermal Stability in Vacuum | Color |
| MoS2 | 0.03 – 0.06 | 600-700⁰C | Blue-Silver Gray |
How is the coating applied?
- The parts are first thoroughly cleaned to remove any oil, grease, dust, or other substances from them.
- They are then pre-treated with an abrasive surface blasting.
- The MoS2 is then applied via high speed impingement with specialized application equipment.
- The parts are then ultrasonically cleaned to remove unbonded coating.
- The last step is inspection to ensure proper, even, application of the coating prior to packaging.
What applications is this type of coating used for?
Uses for MoS2 coatings generally include applications that require a lubricant that does not react when in use and thus remains sturdy. The compound is also un-reactive to most corrosive agents and is thus widely used in applications that require corrosion management. The coating itself provides only a minor delay in corrosion, care should be taken to select the proper substrate for the application.
- Vacuum applications
- Automotive applications
- Military applications
- Fuel cell applications
- Circuitry and microelectronics
- Photonics and photovoltaics
Why choose MoS2 coating on UC’s products?
All UC Components, Inc. RediVac® screws, washers, and nuts are available with MoS2 coating. MoS2 coating provides vacuum compatible lubrication and improves component wear resistance. Our MoS2 coatings are applied without chemical binders and are impinged into the product’s surface, ensuring dimensional integrity while minimizing flaking, chipping, and peeling.
UC Components, Inc. MoS2 coated fasteners also receive the RediVac® cleaning and packaging further reducing surface particulate and reducing surface contamination that may occur during handling. The UC RediVac® MoS2 coated parts are then packaged in the same ISO Class 5 cleanroom in Class 100 certified packaging with color-coded label standard. Additional packaging options (double-bagging, special increments, etc.) are also available upon request.
While all of our platings and coatings are fully vacuum compatible, the ideal finish for your specific HV, UHV, EUC system is best defined by your process engineer. However, please feel free to contact UC Components, Inc. for assistance in selecting the finish you need.
Request a quote today for the MoS2 coated screws, washers, and nuts your high vacuum application requires.
