Experimental investigation of the tribological property of low viscosity lubricant under micro confined space

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to present the probable factors resulting in the lubrication failure in detail, based on the experimental study on the tribological property of the low-viscosity lubricant subjected to the different slide/roll ratios and loads under micro confined space.

Design/methodology/approach

The interference images and the traction coefficients of the spindle oil with low viscosity were recorded using a ball-on-disc test rig. Moreover, the corresponding flash temperatures were obtained via an analytical method.

Findings

More scratches can be observed in the interference images with higher slide/roll ratios. The applied load plays a significant role in the variation of the traction coefficient under different slide/roll ratio, and higher load resulted in lower traction coefficient. The flash temperature generated in the point contact zone non-linearly increases with increasing slide/roll ratio.

Originality/value

The flash temperature is not a crucial factor which results in these scratches in the interference images. Moreover, it is probable that the micro confined space is in boundary lubrication at higher shear rates.

Citation

Qian, S. (2015), "Experimental investigation of the tribological property of low viscosity lubricant under micro confined space", Industrial Lubrication and Tribology, Vol. 67 No. 6, pp. 594-599. https://doi.org/10.1108/ILT-02-2015-0017