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

Abstract

The tribologycal conditions within gear power transmitters as a real tribomechanical system are quite complex and are conditioned to a large extent with 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 to its lubricant degradation. Also, the basic elements of analytical approach to lubricant film behavior under the dynamic loaded conditions were 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 the means of all listed, those variations lead to changes of lubricant characteristic and its degradations. Furthermore, the intensive wearing and damages of power transmitter elements are provoked. All of the listed facts imposed the great importance of lubricant’s current chemical composition, real behavior and its acting mechanisms. Beside all, stability of lubricant’s physical and chemical properties during working life is key element of power transmitters’ safety and reliability. Experimental procedure shown in this paper refers to testing of power transmission properties and its lubricant properties subjected to dynamic load. Lubricant sampling in exploitation provide very important data of current lubricant condition through its properties testing. Experimentally obtained results point out the necessity of considering the lubricant’s present properties as timely depended constructive element. Paper conclusions bring the proposals for reduction of the unwanted consequences due to lubricant degradation. In that way, minimal losses of material and energy, so as decrease of maintenance coasts and minimal ecological impact can be done.