Evaluation of High-Temperature Lubricants for Low-Heat Rejection Diesel Engines

Abstract : A single-cylinder diesel engine was modified to simulate a low-heat rejection (LHR) engine, and it was used to develop lubrication requirements for future Army LHR diesel engines. Several high-temperature lubricant (HTL) candidates were evaluated, and the simulated LHR engine discriminated HTL deposition performance over a range of engine cylinder wall temperatures (CWTs). Three HTLs were identified that had promising performance at CWTs of 600 deg F (316 deg C) while none were adequate at 650 deg F (343 deg C). Oil was collected and analyzed from the ring zone of the simulated LHR engine. Oil degradation was as much as 3.7 times more severe in the ring zone as compared to the oil sump. Preliminary oxidation and friction-wear bench tests were investigated. New and used oil analyses flow charts were developed, and analytical techniques to separate and identify HTL additives and base stocks were developed.