TYPES OF LUBRICATION & FACTORS AFFECTING THE LUBRICATION FILM THICKNESS

By Er.Laxman Singh Sankhla B.E.Mech., Chartered Engineer Jodhpur, India Mail ID: laxman9992001@yahoo.co.in

1.0 TYPES OF LUBRICATION Fluid film Lubrication: This type of lubrication is used when two surfaces of the materials rotate against each other while being completely separated. The liquid lubricants form a very thin film between the moving surfaces and thus avoid the direct metal to metal contact and reduce friction. This condition is known as fluid film lubrication. The resistance to movement of sliding moving parts is only due to the internal resistance between the moving particles of the lubricants moving over each other. Therefore lubricant chosen should have a minimum viscosity under working conditions and at the same time, it should remain in place and separate the surfaces.

Boundary lubrication Boundary lubrication occurs when the lubricating film is about same thickness as the surface roughness such that the high points (asperities) on the solid

surfaces contact. This is generally an undesirable operating regime for a hydrostatic or hydrodynamic bearing, since it leads to increased friction, energy loss, wear and material damage. But, most machines will see boundary lubrication during their operating lives, especially during start-up, shutdown and low speed operation. Special lubricants and additives have been developed to decrease the negative effects of boundary lubrication. The thin layers keep the metal surfaces from contacting, but the boundary lubricant layers will contact each other causing wear.

2.0 FACTORS AFFECTING THE LUBRICATION FILM THICKNESS Operating Speed: The operating speed has an important effect on the lubrication film thickness. As the speed increases a condition known as hydrodynamic lubrication develops, which significantly increases the oil film thickness. At slower speeds higher viscosity lubricants are required to maintain an adequate oil film. In very slow and heavily loaded applications additives such as molybdenum disulphide are used to improve the lubrication. Operating Temperature.: The oil viscosity will reduce with increase in temperature resulting in a corresponding reduction in the oil film thickness. Lubricants with a high viscosity index are less sensitive to the effect of temperature changes. Loads: The operating load has to be considered as it has direct effect on the contact pressure and area contact between the moving parts .These changes must be reflected in the selection of the lubricant. EG: Selection of lubricant for steam turbines In steam turbine, lubricating oil is exposed to high temperatures and have oxidizing conditions. It should have the following properties? It should have emulsification properties It should have anti-forming properties It should have corrosion resistance properties It should have high oxidation properties.