What type of grease should be avoided when handling oxygen systems?

When dealing with oxygen systems, it's crucial to avoid using petroleum-based grease. This type of grease is highly flammable and can ignite in the presence of high-pressure oxygen, leading to potentially explosive situations. Oxygen under pressure can react with organic materials, including petroleum products, creating a fire hazard.

In contrast, silicone grease, vegetable-based grease, and natural oils do not have the same level of flammability and are often considered safer alternatives when handling oxygen. Silicone grease is specifically designed for applications involving high temperatures and can be oxygen-safe. Vegetable-based greases and natural oils are also generally seen as less risky than petroleum-based options in contexts where they may come in contact with high concentrations of oxygen. Therefore, the choice of grease in oxygen systems is critical for ensuring safety and preventing hazardous incidents.