Track-Proven Graphite Dry Lube Formula
After years of unbiased testing and real-world racing, Derby Dust® developed a single dry lube formula that performs consistently on zinc-plated, nickel-plated, and raw steel axles — and injection-molded Pinewood Derby wheels. It’s not theoretical. It’s track-proven.
- Built from controlled spin-down data and head-to-head race results.
- One blend works across all axle types and wheel hubs.
- Maintains low friction across many heats — consistent every run.
- 100% dry, rule-compliant for “graphite-only” races.
Evidence from the Track
Our development wasn’t based on lab claims or speculation. It came from unbiased, side-by-side testing on dozens of single car using different axle materials and finishes. The data showed a clear winner — a balanced blend of graphite and moly solids that retained lubricity long after standard graphite had burned off.
To understand the underlying science, explore our companion research page: Graphite vs. Moly – Which Dry Lube Wins?
Why This Formula Works
Each axle material interacts differently with dry lubricants. Our testing revealed that friction films behave uniquely on zinc, nickel, and bare steel — and even more differently inside a plastic wheel bore. We engineered a formula that adapts dynamically across those interfaces.
- Zinc-Plated Axles: Graphite anchors easily; moly strengthens the film under load, reducing early breakdown.
- Bare Steel: Moly bonds to the steel surface and resists oxidation while graphite provides glide on top.
- Nickel-Plated Axles: Moly acts as an adhesion bridge where graphite alone would fail to stick, giving sustained performance.
- Injection-Molded Wheels: Fine graphite particles plate the polystyrene bore, while the moly stabilizes the film through repeated spins.
Instead of optimizing for one surface at the expense of another, this blend balances adhesion, shear strength, and particle mobility — ensuring every axle and wheel combo behaves predictably under race conditions.
Proven Over Multiple Heats
Speed isn’t just about the first run. Track tests showed that many graphite-only blends spike in speed early, then fade after heat three. Our Graphite + Moly formula maintains its performance curve through ten or more heats, making it ideal for packs that run extended elimination formats.
Every Derby Dust® test build runs this same formula, and every race provides feedback that continues to refine it. This isn’t marketing—it’s data feedback from the field.
One Blend for All Builders
Whether you polish raw axles, prep zinc, or race with nickel-plated upgrades, you can run the same dry lube on all your cars. Burnish into axles and wheel bores, dust lightly before assembly, and enjoy consistent performance across mixed setups.
Shop the Track-Proven Blend
Order Derby Dust® Graphite + Moly Dry Lube — track-proven and data-verified for real competition.