Facts story history myth invention of wd40
Facts story history invention of wd40 used on earth and space
Then Now Always Forever
The story of WD-40 is quite fascinating.
Here's an in-depth look at its invention:
The Beginning
In 1953, a small company called Rocket Chemical Company in San Diego, California, was working on creating a line of rust-prevention solvents and degreasers for the aerospace industry.
The company had a staff of just three people, and they were determined to develop a product that could displace water and prevent rust
The 40th Attempt
It took the team 40 attempts to get the formula right.
On their 40th try, they finally perfected a mixture that worked effectively
This formula became known as WD-40, which stands for Water Displacement, 40th formula.
In 1969 the company was renamed after its only product,
WD-40 Company, Inc.
First Use
The first commercial use of WD-40 was by Convair, an aerospace contractor, to protect the outer skin of the Atlas Missile from rust and corrosion.
The product worked so well that several employees took cans home to use for their personal projects
Transition to Consumer Product
Seeing the potential for household use, Rocket Chemical Company founder Norman B. Larsen decided to package WD-40 in aerosol cans.
The product made its first appearance on store shelves in San Diego in 1958
Growth and Expansion
WD-40 quickly gained popularity for its versatility in lubricating, cleaning, and protecting various surfaces.
By 1961, the company was filling its first full truckload order to help victims of Hurricane Carla along the U.S. Gulf coast
The product was used to recondition flood and rain-damaged vehicles and equipment.
In 1968 goodwill kits containing WD-40 Multi-Use Product were sent to soldiers in Vietnam to prevent moisture damage on firearms and help keep them in good working condition.
Going Public
In 1973, the company went public and was listed on the NASDAQ stock exchange.
The stock price increased by 61% on the first day of trading1. Since then, WD-40 has become a household name, used in numerous consumer and industrial markets.
Modern Day
Today, WD-40 is used by millions of people worldwide for a variety of applications, from automotive maintenance to household repairs.
The company continues to innovate, introducing new products and packaging to meet consumer needs
The story of WD-40 is a testament to perseverance and innovation. It's amazing how a product developed for the aerospace industry has become a staple in homes and industries around the world.
WD-40 has been used in space exploration!
It was originally developed to prevent rust and corrosion on the outer skin of Atlas missiles
Since then, it has found its way into various aerospace applications.
For example, NASA has used WD-40 for maintenance tasks on spacecraft and equipment
While it's not specifically mentioned as being used on the International Space Station (ISS), its versatility and effectiveness make it a valuable tool for keeping equipment in good working order in space.
WD-40 typically comes in a blue and yellow aerosol can with a red cap.
The label prominently features the WD-40 logo in bold letters.
WD-40 is truly a versatile product with a multitude of uses.
Here are some common applications:
Home Maintenance
Lubrication: Lubricates hinges, locks, and wheels to keep them moving smoothly.
Rust Prevention: Protects metal surfaces from rust and corrosion.
Cleaning: Removes adhesives, tar, and grease from various surfaces.
Automotive
Maintenance: Keeps car parts like spark plugs, nuts, and bolts free from rust.
Cleaning: Cleans and protects the battery terminals from corrosion.
Lubrication: Lubricates car door hinges, locks, and other moving parts.
Industrial Uses
Machinery: Keeps machinery running smoothly by lubricating moving parts.
Tools: Protects tools from rust and helps loosen stuck parts.
Electrical: Displaces moisture from electrical equipment, preventing short circuits.
Outdoors
Gardening: Keeps garden tools rust-free and helps remove dirt and sap.
Sports Equipment: Lubricates and protects sports equipment like bicycles and fishing gear.
Camping Gear: Maintains and protects camping equipment from rust and wear.
Unique Uses
Unsticking Gum: Helps remove gum from shoes, carpets, and other surfaces.
Cleaning Shoes: Cleans and restores the shine of leather shoes.
Preventing Snow Buildup: Prevents snow from sticking to shovels and snow blowers.
It's amazing how one product can be used in so many different ways!
In 1993, WD-40 Multi-Use Product was found to be in 4 out of 5 American households (it seems everyone has a can or two) and was used by 81 percent of professionals at work. Sales had grown to more than one million cans each week
Myth: WD-40 Multi-Use Product is not really a lubricant.
Fact: While the “W-D” in WD-40 stands for Water Displacement, WD-40 Multi-Use Product is a unique, special blend of lubricants.
The product’s formulation also contains anti-corrosion agents and ingredients for penetration, water displacement and soil removal.
Myth: WD-40 Multi-Use Product should not be used on bike chains.
Fact: While WD-40 Multi-Use Product it is not a grease, it is formulated with strong lubricating oils and other ingredients, and is a terrific product to use for bike maintenance. It does not attract dirt or moisture to metal surfaces – just be sure to wipe off any excess WD-40 Multi-Use Product before riding.
For long-term lubrication and other specialized bicycle maintenance needs, check out WD-40 Specialist BIKE products. Developed specifically for cyclists and mechanics, this high-performance line of bicycle care products is sure to become a mainstay in the toolboxes of bike mechanics for decades.
Myth: Ken East is WD-40’s original founder.
Fact: While Ken East is often referred to as one of WD-40’s original founders, he used to say, “Heck, I ain’t that old.” Ken was the facility manager at WD-40 Company’s San Diego headquarters and was affectionately known as “The Brewmaster.”
He mixed up batches of our secret sauce for over 15 years and was often heard to proudly proclaim, “I absolutely LOVE my job!” Ken happily retired in 2009.
As mentioned in corporate and brand history, Norm Larsen, founder of Rocket Chemical Company, is considered the original founder of WD-40 Multi-Use Product .
Myth: WD-40 Multi-Use Product contains fish oil.
Fact: Consumers have told us over the years that they have caught some of the biggest fish ever after protecting their fish hooks and lures with WD-40 Multi-Use Product .
this legend came from folks assuming that the product must contain fish oil since it appears to attract fish.
WD-40 Company has taken steps to respect and conserve the environment, and encourages its users to do the same.
While WD-40 Multi-Use Product can be used to help protect fishing equipment from rust and corrosion, WD-40 Company does not recommend using WD-40 Multi-Use Product to attract fish.
