Influence of Power Transmitter Dynamic Load on Physical and Chemical Properties of Used Lubricant

Abstract

The tribological conditions within gear power transmitters as a real tribomechanical system are quite complex and are conditioned to a large extent by the characteristics of used lubricant. Complexities of the conditions are determined by temperature of the elements in contact, current properties of the used lubricant, external load in reference to specific pressures in contact zone, dynamic nature of contact creating, transfer of power and movement. The aim of this paper is to establish the influence of power transmitters dynamic load on its lubricant degradation. Also, the basic elements of analytical approach to lubricant film behaviour under the dynamic loaded conditions are given in this paper. Variations in exploitative conditions lead to variations in load of elements in contact and provoked variation of friction coefficient, so as temperature and pressure decrease. By means of all listed, those variations lead to changes of lubricant characteristic and its degradation. Besides all, stability of lubricant physical and chemical properties during working life is a key element of power transmitters safety and reliability. Experimentally obtained results point out the necessity of considering the lubricant present properties as timely depended constructive element. Paper conclusions bring the proposals for reduction of the undesirable consequences of lubricant degradation.