Tribological Analysis of Nanoparticles Additives in Mineral oil

Abstract

– In present studies research has been done on the effect of nanoparticles of graphene and ultrafine particles of hexagonal boron nitride on tribological properties especially wear and friction of Mineral based SAE 15W-40 diesel engine oil. Different oil samples were prepared by adding graphene and hexagonal boron nitride. Tests with different oil additives concentrations were conducted under the same conditions. Tests were conducted on a pin-on-disc tribometer. Results indicated improved coefficient of friction and wear rate on certain concentrations. The morphology of pins surfaces was analyzed using the scanning electron microscope. Worn surfaces showed improved results as compared to blank oil. The surfaces of pins were also analyzed by a surface roughness tester. By using a 0.05 wt% concentration of graphene nanoparticles in oil nearly 51% reduction in friction was observed. Similarly, by using a 0.15 wt% concentration of hexagonal boron nitride reduction in wear rate of up to 66% was observed. Optimized results were obtained by using a 0.15 wt% concentration of Graphene and a 0.05 wt% concentration of HBN. A 26.8% reduction in COF and 64.3% reduction in wear rate was observed using graphene while a 38% reduction in COF and 25.33% reduction in wear rate was observed using HBN.