What are the functions of a Lubricant?
A primary function of a lubricant is to reduce friction but there are quite a few other functions. Lets learn about them :
REDUCES FRICTION– Lubricants reduce friction between surfaces in contact with each other. A classic example where an engine oil does this is in between the piston and the cylinder liner inside an engine.The engine oil forms a thin layer in between the piston and liner and protects the engine from abrasive wear.
ACTS AS A COOLANT– Friction between two surfaces generates heat proportional to the friction coefficient of the surfaces. This heat is dissipated and taken away by the Engine oil hence acting as a coolant.
CLEANS THE ENGINE– The Engine oil or lubricant carries away soot and other particulate matter that form during combustion. The lubricant also carries away wear particles and other contaminants. These are trapped in the filter or are removed from the system by a lube oil purifier.
ACTS AS A SEALANT– The lubricant acts as an effective seal between the piston and the cylinder liner. This aids in maintaining the right pressure inside the combustion chamber allowing for a good combustion to take place. Other examples of this effective sealing are in the case of bearings and valve guides.
