The zipper of the immersion suit should be lubricated with ___ or ___.

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Multiple Choice

The zipper of the immersion suit should be lubricated with ___ or ___.

The key idea is choosing a zipper lubricant that works in cold water and won’t harm the suit materials. Wax-based lubricants like bees wax or paraffin form a thin, protective film on the zipper teeth that stays put in cold conditions and isn’t easily washed away by water. They reduce friction smoothly without altering the rubber or neoprene of the suit, and they’re easy to remove after use. Petroleum jelly is sticky and can attract grit, and over time it can interact with elastomers, potentially causing issues with the seal or fabric. Silicone oil is a liquid and can migrate into seals or fabric, leaving a slippery residue and collecting debris. Graphite powder is a dry lubricant but creates fine dust that can contaminate the suit and is impractical to apply and maintain.

The key idea is choosing a zipper lubricant that works in cold water and won’t harm the suit materials. Wax-based lubricants like bees wax or paraffin form a thin, protective film on the zipper teeth that stays put in cold conditions and isn’t easily washed away by water. They reduce friction smoothly without altering the rubber or neoprene of the suit, and they’re easy to remove after use.

Petroleum jelly is sticky and can attract grit, and over time it can interact with elastomers, potentially causing issues with the seal or fabric. Silicone oil is a liquid and can migrate into seals or fabric, leaving a slippery residue and collecting debris. Graphite powder is a dry lubricant but creates fine dust that can contaminate the suit and is impractical to apply and maintain.

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