Introduction:
The duties of the lubricant in an engine are many and varied in scope.
Properties of lubricants:
The lubricant is called upon to limit and control the following:
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Friction between the components and metal to metal contact
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Overheating of the components
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Defects To accomplish the above functions, a good lubricant should posses properties :
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Oiliness to ensure the adherence of the bearings ,and for loss friction and wear when the lubrication is in the boundary region, and as a protective covering against corrosion.
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High strength to prevent the metal to metal contact and seizure under heavy load.
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Should not react with the lubricating surface.
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A low pour point to allow the flow of lubricant at low temperature to the oil pump.
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No tendency to form deposits by reacting with air, water, fuel or the products of combustion
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Non foaming characteristic
Industrial Lubricants
• Solid
– lamellar solids, solid organic compounds, chemical coatings, soft metals.
• Semi-solid …….. Grease.
• Liquid…… mineral, animal/vegetable, synthetic, water based fluids.
• Gases ….. Mostly air.
