LUBRICATION

IC engine is made of moving parts. Duo to continuous movement of two metallic surfaces over each other, there is wearing of moving parts, generation of heat and loss of power in engine. Lubrication of moving parts is essential to prevent all these harmful effects.

Purpose of lubrication –

1. Reducing frictional effect

2. Cooling effect

3. Sealing effect

4. Cleaning effect

Types of Lubricants:

Lubricants are obtained from animal fat, vegetables and minerals. Vegetable lubricants are obtained from seeds, fruits and plants. Cotton seed oil, olive oil, linseed oil, caster oil are used as lubricants. Mineral lubricants are most popular for engines and machines. It is obtained from crude petroleum found in nature.. Petroleum lubricants are less expensive and suitable for internal combustion engines.

Engine Lubrication System

The lubricating system of an engine is an arrangement of mechanisms which maintains the supply of lubricating oil to the rubbing surfaces of an engine at correct pressure and temperature.

The parts which require lubrication are

1. Cylinder walls and piston

2. Piston pin

3. Crankshaft and connecting rod bearings

4. Camshaft bearings

5. Valve operating mechanism

6. Cooling fan

7. Water pump and

8. Ignition mechanism