For years, the Barrel Brothers—renowned for their intricate and often gravity-defying skate creations—have been pushing the boundaries of skateboarding innovation. Their unique designs and commitment to quality have garnered a significant following, and a key element often overlooked in their masterpieces is a surprising ingredient: WD-40.
While not a traditional lubricant for skateboards, WD-40, when used judiciously and correctly, plays a vital role in their process. This article delves into how Barrel Brothers utilize WD-40 and explores the reasons behind its surprising effectiveness.
Understanding the Barrel Brothers' Approach
The Barrel Brothers' creations are famously complex, often incorporating multiple moving parts, intricate mechanisms, and unexpected interactions. These aren't your standard skateboards; they're kinetic sculptures designed for both artistry and functionality. This complexity requires careful attention to detail, and that includes lubrication. Simply using traditional skateboard lubricants isn't always sufficient for their specific needs.
WD-40: Not Just for Squeaky Hinges
WD-40's primary function is as a water displacement agent. Its ability to repel water and moisture is what makes it effective in many situations, but in the context of Barrel Brothers' work, this property plays a secondary role. The crucial aspect for them is WD-40's ability to:
- Penetrate Tight Spaces: The intricate mechanisms of their boards require a lubricant that can easily penetrate narrow gaps and crevices. WD-40's thin consistency allows it to do this effectively, lubricating moving parts that other thicker lubricants might struggle to reach.
- Reduce Friction: While not ideal for the rolling surfaces of the wheels themselves, WD-40 can effectively reduce friction between other moving components, such as linkages, pivots, and axles. This minimizes wear and tear and ensures smoother operation of the complex mechanisms.
- Clean and Protect: Before applying WD-40, the Barrel Brothers likely clean the moving parts thoroughly. WD-40, in addition to lubricating, can also help displace dirt and debris, thus protecting the mechanisms from premature wear.
The Crucial Caveats: Responsible WD-40 Usage
It's important to emphasize that WD-40 is not a suitable lubricant for the wheels or the bearings of a standard skateboard. Its use should be strictly confined to the internal mechanisms of the Barrel Brothers' specialized creations. Applying it to the wheels or bearings would likely attract dirt and grime, resulting in a less-than-ideal ride.
Specific Applications in Barrel Brothers' Designs
While the exact methods remain largely confidential (part of the magic!), we can speculate on possible applications:
- Articulating Joints: In boards with articulated sections or moving parts, WD-40 would ensure smooth and consistent movement.
- Small Mechanisms: Tiny levers, gears, and other intricate components would benefit from WD-40's ability to penetrate and lubricate.
- Prevention of Rust and Corrosion: In exposed metal parts, WD-40's protective qualities could help prevent rust and corrosion, extending the lifespan of the creation.
Conclusion: A Unique Application for a Versatile Product
The Barrel Brothers' innovative use of WD-40 highlights the versatility of this often-underestimated product. Their ability to leverage its properties for their specialized creations demonstrates both ingenuity and a deep understanding of both materials and mechanics. While not recommended for standard skateboarding maintenance, WD-40 finds a surprisingly effective niche in the world of high-end, custom-designed skate creations. It stands as a testament to the creative problem-solving that goes into pushing the boundaries of artistic expression and engineering.
