OBJECTS OF LUBRICATION
To reduce friction between
moving parts to its minimum value so that power loss is minimized.
To reduce wear of the
moving parts as far as possible. Apart from these primary objects, lubrication also serves other important purposes, which may be called
secondary objects.
To provide a cooling
effect – The lubricating oil takes heat from the hot moving parts during its
circulation and delivers it to the surrounding air through the crankcase.
To provide a cushioning
effect – The lubricating oil serves also as a good cushion against the shocks
present in the engine. For example, instant combustion of the fuel in the
combustion chamber produces a sudden pressure rise in the cylinder and the
shock goes to the hearing through the piston gudgeon pin and the connecting
rod. This shock is then absorbed by the layer of oil present in the main
bearings.
To provide sealing action
– The lubricating oil also helps the piston rings to maintain an effective seal
against the high-pressure gases in the cylinder from leaking out toward the
crankcase side.
To provide a cleaning action
– Apart from the objects to be achieved by lubrication as described above, the
lubricating oil serves another useful purpose in providing a cleaning action. During
its circulation, it dissolves many impurities, for instance, carbon particles.
Tags
technology