Optimisation of Lubricants by Nano Metal Powder

Abstract

Lubricants play a vital role in machine performance, machine life, reducing wear and friction and preventing component from failure. Poor performance of lubricant can cause significant energy and material losses. To improve the lubricating properties of bearing oil, nanoparticles can be added in bearing oils. In this research Aluminium Oxide (Al2O3) nanoparticles were added into the SN-500 base oil and tribological properties were examined. The concentrations of Al2O3 nanoparticles prepared in SN-500 base oil are 0.1 wt. %, 0.5 wt. %, 0.75 wt. % and 1 wt. %. The trials of friction and wear were carried out on a pin on disc tribotester, with varying the concentration of nanoparticle and by varying load (10N, 30N & 50N). The obtained results were compared between Al2O3 nano oil and SN-500 base oil. The results showed that 0.5wt% for Al2O3 nano fluid concentration was an optimum concentration for wear. For the friction reduction test, when Al2O3 nanoparticles were added into a base oil, the coefficient of friction reduced by 19%, 35% & 52% at 0.5 wt.% concentration as compared to oil without nanoparticles.