Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham (Amrita University)’s School of Engineering, Chennai announces a research project titled “Tribological and Energy Efficiency of Micro/Nano Additivated Lubricants,” led by Dr. Shubrajit Bhaumik, Associate Professor at the institution. This research aims to explore the tribological properties and energy efficiency of lubricants enhanced with micro and nano additives, a topic of significant interest in industries requiring high-performance lubricants for machinery and automotive applications.

Research Focus and Significance

Lubrication plays a crucial role in reducing friction and wear in machinery, directly influencing energy consumption, efficiency, and overall performance. Traditional lubricants have been enhanced over the years with various additives to improve their properties, and the recent trend towards micro and nano additivation shows promising potential for further improvements.
This research will specifically focus on the tribological properties of industrial lubricants that are enhanced with micro and nano additives. These lubricants are expected to offer reduced friction, improved wear resistance, and greater energy efficiency. By investigating the effects of these additives, the project aims to generate valuable insights into their potential for optimizing lubrication systems, ultimately reducing energy consumption and extending the lifespan of mechanical components.

Funding and Support

The project is generously funded by Mosil Lubricants. The funding period extends throughout 2023 to 2027, providing the research team with the necessary resources to conduct a comprehensive study and produce an in-depth analysis of the lubricants’ properties.

Research Objectives

The primary objective of this study is to investigate how micro and nano additives impact the tribological behavior of industrial lubricants. The study will examine key parameters such as friction, wear, and energy efficiency under various operating conditions. The project will also assess the overall effectiveness of these advanced lubricants in improving machinery performance, contributing to more sustainable and efficient industrial operations.

1. Design and Conduct Rigorous Experiments:
• Controlled Laboratory Tests: Employ advanced testing techniques, such as ball-on-disk and pin-on-disk tribometers, to simulate real-world operating conditions.
• Field Trials: Collaborate with industry partners to assess the performance of bio-lubricants in actual machinery, including automotive engines and industrial gearboxes.
2. In-Depth Tribological Analysis:
• Surface Characterization: Utilize techniques like scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) to examine the wear mechanisms and surface morphology of tribological components.
• Friction and Wear Measurements: Quantify the friction coefficient and wear rate of different bio-lubricants under various operating conditions.
• Lubricant Degradation Studies: Investigate the degradation mechanisms of bio-lubricants over time, including oxidation and thermal breakdown.

Expected Outcomes:

By successfully executing this research, we anticipate the following significant outcomes:

• Identification of High-Performance Industrial-Lubricants: Discover novel lubricants that exhibit superior tribological properties, such as low friction, high wear resistance, and excellent thermal stability.
• Enhanced Lubrication Technologies: Develop innovative lubrication solutions that reduce friction, minimize wear, and improve the overall efficiency of machinery.
• Reduced Environmental Impact: Promote the adoption of sustainable and eco-friendly lubrication practices, leading to decreased greenhouse gas emissions and reduced reliance on petroleum-based products.
• Economic Benefits: Contribute to the growth of the lubricant industry, creating new job opportunities and stimulating economic development.

By addressing these key objectives and achieving these anticipated outcomes, this research will significantly advance the field of tribology and contribute to a more sustainable future.