In simple terms, nano lubricants are a type of lubricant that includes nanoparticles, which improve their tribological properties. These nanoparticles (usually up to 0.1 micrometres in diameter) are added to a base oil or fluid to form a nano lubricant.
Nanoparticle use allows for enhanced performance in comparison to conventional lubricants in various areas including durability and reduced friction and wear.
Here we look at nano lubricants in depth, how they work and why they will likely play a vital role in the future of machine applications. While still an emerging technology, nano lubrication offers many benefits from environmental protection to efficiency gains. Read on to learn more.
How nano lubrication works
From Shell to Castrol, major lubrication manufacturers are continuously working to advance the solutions they provide for an ever-changing market with ever-growing demands.
Designed for a diverse range of applications, nano lubricants work on the same principles of standard solutions. For example, once applied, they form a thin layer that serves as barrier in between moving components, stopping them from coming into contact to reduce friction and wear.
However, unlike conventional lubricants that can’t cover microscopic imperfections (asperities), nano lubricants incorporate particles that are so small they easily enter the tiniest hollows. Their activity is likened to miniscule ball bearings that, when in contact, produce an ultra-smooth protective layer supplying minimal resistance in between moving parts.
With some types of nano lubricants, the nanoparticles can move to replace newly formed gaps or areas of wear, maintaining the oil film integrity for an extended period.
Examples of nanoparticles
Nano lubricants use a variety of different nanoparticles, specially selected for their properties. For instance, carbon nanotubes are chosen for their lubricating qualities and high strength, while tungsten disulfide (WS2) is known for its ability to effectively reduce friction.
Boron nitride is another nanoparticle that supplies good lubricating and thermal conductivity capabilities.
Benefits of nano lubricants
Nano lubrication technology has several advantages over traditional lubricants, and these gains make nano lubricants a match for a wide range of applications.
Improved energy efficiency
The most significant advantage of nano lubricants is their ability to enhance energy efficiency levels. As they reduce friction more effectively, machinery requires less energy to run. Lower friction levels mean motors, engines and other mechanical components don’t have to work as hard, giving greater potential for energy savings and cutting costs connected with operating them.
This equates to greater energy efficiency, which is a grail modern companies continually quest for in sectors like transportation and manufacturing, as these involve heavy machinery. Just a small improvement for energy efficiency levels can convert into significant economic savings while also reducing a company’s carbon footprint. As a result, nano lubricants also offer environmental benefits.
Reduced friction and wear
Nano lubricants can extend the active service life of the machinery they serve, beyond the capabilities of conventional lubricants. They reduce component wear and tear better than traditional lubricants that can’t uniformly distribute on frictional surfaces, causing irregular wear patterns over time.
Nano lubricants supply a consistent layer across metal surfaces, providing a more dependable defence against deterioration.
This attribute is exceptionally valuable for heavy and high-performance machinery that operates under extreme conditions; for example, in sectors like oil and gas production, mining and construction, where equipment must manage excessive loads and stress. The protection nano lubricants provide reduces mechanical downtime, decreases maintenance costs and prolongs equipment life span.
Nano lubricants not only mitigate wear but also supply longer lasting protection. Their nanoparticles can stay in place without breaking down for an extended time, allowing nano lubricants to retain their protective qualities even under extreme conditions. Their durable design ensures that they need replacing less frequently compared to traditional solutions, saving both resources and time.
Improved thermal stability
Nano lubricants are specially engineered to hold up at high temperatures. This is why they are an ideal option for applications involving extreme heat levels, where standard lubricants are more likely to degrade and lose their effectiveness. Applied in engines and other industrial mechanisms, nano lubricants can continue to performance at optimum, ensuring dependable lubrication under even the harshest conditions.
Although an emerging technology at present, with such impressive benefits, there can be little doubt that nano lubrication will see use in a wide range of applications in the future.
