BREAK-FREE (CLP) TECHNICAL REPORT
BREAK-FREE CLP
MIRACLES? MAGIC? MYSTERY?
BREAK-FREE CLP is not a miracle product. It contains no
magic ingredients. It was not conjured up in a secret cave by
long-forgotten tribesmen then discovered suddenly by smart
marketers and offered on late night TV.
But how BREAK-FREE CLP performs on firearms is nothing short
of miraculous, sometimes described as magical and is truly
mysterious to those who try to copy the formula.
In truth, BREAK-FREE CLP is a scientifically formulated
synthetic liquid specifically designed to do three important
tasks simultaneously.
1. Clean metal
2. Lubricate metal
3. Protect metal
BREAK-FREE CLP is made from a unique combination of
synthetic oils and other ingredients blended through a
proprietary series of processes developed by BREAK-FREE's
Technical Director Don Yoder. Both the ingredients and the
processes used to combine them are closely held secrets, and no
other product has been developed that duplicates either the
formula or the way it works.
FROM PLATING TO FIREARMS
Don Yoder developed BREAK-FREE in 1973 when he was running a
hard-anodizing and nickel plating operation where the constant
presence of sulfuric acid fumes caused rapid corrosion of metal.
Based on his extensive practical background in aeronautics and
oceanography applications for, Yoder wanted a product that would
be a superior lubricant and rust inhibitor, would penetrate to
the base metal and would last a long time. In addition, it had to
be safe both for the user and the environment. In his laboratory,
Yoder discovered that his combination of ingredients delivered
the performance he wanted only after they were combined, while
the individual ingredients by themselves did not. The synergism
is what makes BREAK-FREE CLP the effective product that it is.
MILITARY REQUIREMENTS
To increase reliability and performance to reduce misfires
and malfunctions in various military weapons, the U.S. Army
issued in 1971 a "purchase description"--PD-48-- listing the
performance properties of a single, multi-purpose product to
clean, lubricate and protect weaponry. These included, in broad
terms, the following requirements:
1. It must easily remove firing residue, carbon
deposits and other contaminants during the
cleaning process, and prevent the rapid buildup of
subsequent deposits during firing which cause
malfunctions and weapon failure.
2. It must lubricate moving parts, including those
which bear a heavy load, and it must continue to
lubricate over long periods of time and use. At
the same time it must not be sticky or greasy so
as to attract dust, sand or dirt which would cause
malfunctions. As a weapons lubricant it must
function under all conditions - extreme heat or
cold, in mud, water, dust, etc.
3. As a corrosion preventative it must protect the
weapon and preserve it in a "grab-and-go"
condition in all climatic conditions - high
humidity, rain, snow, etc., and it must protect
the weapon against corrosion in field use, even in
extreme conditions such as salt water
environments.
The requirements were so severe that PD-48 became known as
the "impossible specification," and from 1971 nothing was found
to come even close to meeting its requirements, until BREAK-FREE
CLP was introduced.
The U.S. Military began testing BREAK-FREE CLP in 1976 and
for almost three years it carried out test after test in the
laboratories and in the field on weapons of all types from the
M16 rifle to 8 inch artillery howitzers, until finally, in 1979,
it was completely satisfied that BREAK-FREE CLP not only met the
"impossible specification," but even exceeded its requirements.
MIL-L-63460
The U.S. Military then created a new cleaning, lubricating
and protection specification, MIL-L-63460, (largely based on PD-
48 and the exceptional performance of BREAK-FREE CLP), which set
out new and extremely high performance requirements for a single
product cleaner, lubricant and preservative and the test methods
by which to evaluate its performance.
BREAK-FREE CLP was approved by the U.S. Military to the MIL-
L-63460 specification, and since that time has been continuously
used as the primary maintenance product by the U.S. Army, Navy
and U.S. Air Force for cleaning, lubricating and preserving all
weapons...tanks, mortars, rifles, machine guns, or guns on
battleships.
Since their introduction, MIL-L-63460 and BREAK-FREE CLP
have become recognized by Militaries around the world as the
standards by which to ensure the maximum performance and
protection of weapons and weapon systems, and both have been
adopted by 20 countries throughout the free world, including
NATO, which has given the specification the NATO number S-758.
THE BREAK-FREE CLP WORLD
The following countries are among those that have adopted
BREAK-FREE CLP to clean, lubricate and protect weapons from small
arms to naval guns: Austria, Belgium, Canada, Finland, France,
Germany, Greece, Holland, Italy, Norway, Sweden, Singapore, New
Zealand and U.S.A.
WHAT HAS THIS MEANT FOR THE MILITARY
By using BREAK-FREE CLP to replace other cleaners,
lubricants and preservatives, the Military has achieved:
*Better and easier cleaning with fewer malfunctions
caused by accumulation of firing deposits.
*Improved and longer lasting lubrication for
improved weapon performance and reliability in
temperatures ranging from -50 C to +240 C --
increased mean time between failures.
*Weapons can be cleaned and left in a "grab-and-go"
condition. No need to remove grease or de-oil
before firing.
*Improved corrosion protection, in all climatic
conditions and environments.
*Easy, one step cleaning, lubricating and
preserving.
*Because it can be done easily and quickly, weapon
maintenance is more likely to be done correctly.
*The soldier has to carry only one item in the
field for all his cleaning, lubricating and
preserving needs.
*The costs and burden are significantly reduced.
*The frequency of weapon maintenance can be
reduced.
*Material and labor costs are reduced.
*The reliability, maintainability and dependability
of weapons is improved.
*Weapon life is extended.
*Combat readiness is improved.
In summary, BREAK-FREE CLP provides the most combat weapon,
able to function in all conditions and environments.
*It reduces the time and difficulty of weapon
cleaning, lubrication preservation.
*It lowers the frequency of weapon maintenance.
*It extends the life of the weapon.
*It improves the performance and reliability of a
weapon.
*It reduces the cost by replacing 5 products.
And...it does it for less overall cost.
But perhaps the greatest benefit of all is that it may save
the life of the soldier or policeman who depends on his weapon to
work at all times.
It really no wonder that BREAK-FREE CLP is used by so many
Militaries and law enforcement agencies throughout the world.
KEEP YOUR FIREARMS IN "COMBAT READY" CONDITION...AND RECEIVE
THE SAME BENEFITS REALIZED BY THE MILITARY
While claims such as this are made by many other cleaners,
lubricants, preservatives and miscellaneous potions, and may
sound very convincing, BREAK-FREE CLP'S long association with and
acceptance by the Free World's armed forces proves the validity
of this report.
BREAK-FREE CLP is a balanced formula created from years of
development work combined with field testing to ensure that the
"balance" fulfills the user's needs.
Operation at low temperatures; corrosion resistance for
tropical climates; lubrication for all weather operation as well
as Bore cleaning were some of the required conditions to be met.
Each one working without detracting from another.
BREAK-FREE CLP has achieved this balance and offers the long
term values.
All of your own guns...handguns, rifles, shotguns,...should
be kept in peak condition by caring for them with BREAK-FREE CLP,
remember, however, that guns do not clean or lube themselves. Be
sure to clean and lubricate all working parts, chambers, actions
and barrels using proper techniques.
BREAK-FREE CLP can be applied to the bore of a firearm from
either end and should also be applied to the firing pin, bolt,
receiver, etc., of the rifles and shotguns. When cleaning a
handgun, apply a light coat of BREAK-FREE CLP to all surfaces of
the barrel, forcing cone and mechanical parts, as well as to the
magazine of an semi-automatic pistol if it is dirty or rusty. We
do not suggest spraying BREAK-FREE CLP on ammunition, even though
test reports on file show that BREAK-FREE CLP did not affect
primers on rounds soaked in it for two weeks.
WHAT BREAK-FREE CLP WILL DO FOR YOUR FIREARMS
CLEANING
Unlike degreaser-type bore cleaner, BREAK-FREE CLP
never leaves metal unprotected. This is why proper gun
care procedures caution against getting bore cleaner in
the action where they leave a dry, unlubricated residue
that can inhibit normal operation of working parts.
With BREAK-FREE CLP. the cleaning action goes right to
the base metal, undercutting contaminants including
powder residue, lead and copper fouling. It breaks
these contaminants free of the metal and lifts them
away. It leaves behind a barrier film that both
lubricates and protects the metal from corrosion. This
film will not attract dirt as regular gun oils do and
consequently will not permit firing residue to build up
on metal surfaces.
LUBRICATING
Because BREAK-FREE CLP last so long, it provides
superior lubrication for moving metal parts. Most other
oils and combination products evaporate so quickly,
virtually all protection is gone within hours. In the
case of heavier oils and wax-bearing compounds used for
lubrication, dirt and burnt powder are attracted to the
metal and a gummy residue is formed.
PROTECTION
Corrosion is the enemy of all metals, and steel
used in firearms is very susceptible to rust because of
the often harsh environment firearms are used in.
BREAK-FREE CLP protects metal better than other gun
care products because its protection outlasts mineral
oil and wax based products. Salt-spray tests prove that
BREAK-FREE CLP protects metal in conditions far beyond
what the average hunter or shooter will put his firearm
through. Other products tested fail in a very short
time and leave the metal unprotected against rust.
WHY MANY PRODUCTS CANNOT MEET THESE STRINGENT REQUIREMENTS
Ordinary single-function solvents, even with vigorous
scrubbing, will not dislodge the solid particulate in the
microscopic striations of the metal surface, consequently leaving
some traces of contamination, dust, dirt, oils, water and
corrosion.
The bulk of popular consumer products use a combination of
solvents, waxes, and inexpensive mineral oils to provide
lubrication. While these provide some short term results, they
usually fail at the points where they are needed most. One of the
most popular lubricants and corrosion inhibitors for many
manufacturers is wax. Temperature changes and use causes was
formulations to undergo composition change that eventually
becomes gummy and forms varnish, lacquer-like residue.
Inexpensive mineral oils also have similar shortcomings. Mineral
oils of this type can break down under heat and pressure to form
a gummy sludge.
Another major flaw in many products is the tendency to focus
on one property, such as wear, at the expense of other
properties, such as corrosion prevention.
THE MILITARY TESTING PROGRAM: PROVING HOW EFFECTIVE BREAK-FREE
CLP REAL IS
The military does not accept new proposals lightly,
particularly when it affects so many of the weapons they use.
Therefore, the testing and evaluation was undertaken in 3
distinct steps from 1976 through 1979.
Step one: FIELD TESTING
BREAK-FREE CLP was an unknown. To provide some
history, many weapons were tested using BREAK-FREE CLP
to replace the standard lubricants. Handguns, rifles,
machine guns and Vulcan gatling guns were tested, each
with success.
In each case, the ease of use, ability to clean
the bore and lubricate the weapon showed there was
promise.
Step two: LABORATORY TESTING
With the apparent success working on actual
weapons, the next step was to measure the various
properties and quantify them.
The only yardstick available was a purchase
description, PD-48, issued in May 1971, to describe a
multipurpose cleaner, lubricant and preservative for
use on small arms weapons. Eleven basic values were
measured:
1. Flash Point C(F)...........65.5 (150)
2. Pour Point C(F)............-59 (-75)
3. Shell 4-ball Scar dia......0.8 mm max.
4. Falex Wear Life............20 min. @ 250 lbs.
5. Falex Peak Load............1 min. @ 750 lbs.
6. Firing Residue Removal.....80% minimum
7. Primer Salts Removal.......No Corrosion
8. Metals Corrosion in milligrams per square centimeter
max
...........................Zinc...........1.5
...........................Aluminum.......0.2
...........................Brass..........1.0
...........................Steel..........0.2
...........................Copper.........1.5
...........................Magnesium......0.5
...........................Cadmium........1.5
9. Humidity Cabinet...........900 hours min.
10.Salt Spray Cabinet........100 hours min.
11.Water Displacement and water stability..No Corrosion
This would later be expanded in MIL-L-63460 to include:
12.Viscosity at +40 C.............9 cst. min.
13.Viscosity at -54 C.............3700 cst. max.
14.Residue & fluidity -54 C.......Permit Movement
15.Chemical Agent Detector Paper..........No affect
16.Corrosion Protection From Propellant
Reaction....................No Corrosion
In each case, BREAK-FREE CLP met or exceeded the
requirements of PD-48, and eventually MIL-L-63460.
These tests are still used today in routine
quality control testing to guarantee the continuing
quality of BREAK-FREE CLP.
Step Three: CONTROLLED GUN FIRING
From the success in the Field Testing and the
Laboratory Testing, a controlled Gun Firing Test was
needed.
Since nothing existed to measure the value of the
lubricant, they used the original qualification tests
of the M16-A1 and M60 machine gun. BREAK-FREE CLP was
used on 3 M16-A1 rifles and 3 M60's while LSA (MIL-L-
460000) was used on an additional set of 3 each. The
testing was done in great detail. Endurance, sand &
dust, mud, low temperature, and a salt water dip were
all part of the program using the cyclic rate of fire
and failures to fire to develop the expected MTBF (Mean
Time Between Failure).
BREAK-FREE CLP proved to be far more reliable than
LSA, particularly in the salt water dip where CLP
showed a 400% improvement over LSA lubricant on the M60
machine gun.
The conclusion for the military was simple: A single product
to replace several, reducing inventory and saving on the cost of
logistics, coupled with an improved "Mean Time Between Failure."
The apparent success from informal field trials was now a
proven success with laboratory style gun firing supporting the
previous conclusions of field personnel.
BREAK-FREE CLP was approved in 1979 and began entering the
inventory in 1980 where it has now seen extensive service
worldwide for over 10 years.
That only comes from the consistent quality and reliability
provided by the BREAK-FREE, Inc. CLP formula.
PROBLEMS BREAK-FREE CLP WAS DESIGNED TO SOLVE AND HOW
BREAK-FREE CLP SOLVES THESE PROBLEMS:
1. CLEANING OF FIRING RESIDUE: Unlike other bore
cleaners which mainly attack only the soluble
portion of the contaminant, BREAK-FREE CLP
actually penetrates through all the contaminants
dow to the microscopic striations and crevices of
the metal, breaking free all of the contaminants
in one process, and as it breaks the contaminants
away from the surface of the metal, BREAK-FREE CLP
lifts the residue away from the surface of the
metal where it can then be removed by brushing,
patching, etc.
2. PREVENTING BUILDUP OF CONTAMINANTS: As it
penetrates to the surface of the metal, BREAK-FREE
CLP leaves a barrier film on the metal that is
non-sticky and dirt resistant.
3. REDUCTION OF CLEANING FREQUENCY: Because firing
residue does not rapidly build up on the thin
barrier film, cleaning is not needed as often.
Subsequent cleanings are far easier because the
residue does not stick as it does to untreated,
bare metal.
4. REDUCING METAL-TO-METAL WEAR: The multiple
ingredients in BREAK-FREE CLP include
polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) which forms a
boundary film in support of the lubrication
properties of BREAK-FREE CLP. The thin barrier
film that adhere to metal after contaminants are
removed maintains it viscosity without drying out
or evaporating. BREAK-FREE CLP keeps working
from -54 to +246 C(-65 to +475 F).
5. DISPLACEMENT OF WATER: BREAK-FREE CLP treats water
like any other contaminant, separating it from the
surface of the metal so no rust-causing moisture
is left on the metal's surface.
6. PREVENTING CORROSION: Corrosion inhibitors in
BREAK-FREE CLP prevent the formation of rust,
while dirt, firing residue and moisture are kept
away from the metal by the film left on the
surface of the metal.
7. ALL-WEATHER OPERATION: Unlike mineral oils that
tend to change molecularly, lose viscosity or
stiffen up in temperature extremes, or solvents
that dry out, BREAK-FREE CLP keeps working in any
environment including high and low temperatures,
dusty or dirty atmosphere, high humidity or even
salt air. The non-sticky nature of BREAK-FREE CLP
does not let contaminants build up, and will keep
firearms or other equipment in a read condition
for months.
THE MANY USES FOR BREAK-FREE CLP
Wherever there is metal to be cleaned, lubricated and
protected from corrosion, you will find BREAK-FREE CLP the ideal
way to allow metal to survive. In addition to the military, the
California Highway Patrol (CHP) and many other law enforcement
agencies have adopted it as their sole gun care product. General
Motors packages a Break-Free product under the Mr. Goodwrench
label for automotive use. Harley-Davidson, under its own label,
uses BREAK-FREE CLP on motorcycle chains. Industrial plants have
replaced many types of cleaners, degreasers, lubricants, and
corrosion preventatives with BREAK-FREE CLP as a single product
to handle many tasks.
Wherever you look around your home, workshop, sporting
equipment, automobile or boat, you will find metals that need to
be kept clean, lubricated and protected from rust and other
corrosion. Use BREAK-FREE CLP in all these applications and
discover the benefits the armed forces discovered a decade ago.
Look for BREAK-FREE CLP at your local gun, sporting goods or
hardware store. BREAK-FREE CLP is available in many sizes of
aerosol cans, liquids and non-aerosol sprays through your local
gun, sporting goods or hardware outlet.
BREAK-FREE CLP TECHNICAL DATA
(Test Data on File)
*Meets or exceeds MIL-L-63460 specifications.
*Operating temperature range: -53.9 C (-65 F) to
+246 C (+475 F).
*Firing residue removal: 98%.
*Noncorrosive -- pH neutral.
*Nonconductor -- dielectric constant 2.18.
*Pour Point: Below -59.4 C (-75 F) (ASTM D97).
*Flash Point T.C.C. (Tagliabue Close Cup).
Before Application: above 65.5 C (150 F).
After Application: above 210 C (410 F).
*Liquid does not support combustion. (ASTM--D1266
lamp method combustion).
*Specific gravity: Approximately 1.0 gm/ml.
*Weight: Approximately 1.0 kg/liter (8.3 lbs/gal).
*Salt spray resistance: (5%) 100 hours plus.
*Humidity cabinet test: 900 hours plus (Fed. Std.
791).
*Falex wear life: 20 minutes minimum at 250 lbs.
*Falex Load carrying capacity: 750 lbs (minimum).
(MIL-L-63460)
*Wear preventive characteristics (four ball wear
scar): .8mm (ASTM-D2266)
*Viscosity @ -53.9 C (-65 F): Approximately 3700
centistokes.
SAFETY INFORMATION
1. Product is non-toxic, however, it contains
petroleum distillates, so must carry the package
warning label: "Harmful or fatal if swallowed. If
swallowed, do not induce vomiting. Call physician
immediately."
2. Is not considered an irritant to normal eyes and
skin.
3. Will not harm gun finishes, automotive or
equipment coatings.
4. Aerosols have CO2 propellant for environmental
protection, extra safety and sprayability at lower
temperatures, and do not contain freon propellants
or butane/propane propellants.
5. "Certified by U.S. Coast Guard for use as an
article of stores on board vessels. This
certification only covers hazard in the use of
this product. The efficiency of the product is not
passed upon." (Certification No. 1024, compressed
gas, 13 October 1976. Certification No. 1025,
combustible liquid, 13 October 1976.)
If you have any requests for information or new suggestions
for the use of BREAK-FREE CLP, please feel free at anytime to
contact BREAK-FREE INC. at the following address:
BREAK-FREE INC.
Attn: Customer Service
P.O. Box 25020
Santa Ana, CA 92799-5020
Telephone: (714) 953-1900
FAX: (714) 953-0402