Various types of vehicles require different methods of lubrication to keep them running effectively. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at the lubrication systems used for two-wheel vehicles like motorcycles and scooters. Engine lubrication systems for these vehicles can be separated into six types, so read on to learn more.
Splash lubrication
Splash system lubrication is one of the most popular types of lubrication system and is also among the cheapest lubrication methods. This system involves a scoop fitted towards the lower part of the connecting rod. Once the engine starts, the scoop splashes the lubricating oil to the engine’s parts via centrifugal force.
Petrol lubrication
The petrol lubrication system is typically used in the two-stroke engine installed in motorcycles and scooters and involves a certain quantity of oil mixed with petrol. Around three to six per cent oil is mixed with fuel for this lubrication. If less is used, it is exceptionally harmful to the vehicle’s engine. However, if too much oil is added, engines will emit excessive carbon and dark smoke.
Pressure lubrication
While some systems such as the splash system are suitable for smaller engine types, they are not adequate for motorcycles that have larger engines. For such make and models, the pressure system is employed instead. Oil from the engine’s sump is supplied after passing through the strainer and the filter to the engine’s components via the main galleries. During this process, the lubricating oil pressure is usually about 2 to 4kg/centimetre squared.
Semi-pressure lubrication
With this system of lubrication, the oil pressure is somewhere between 0.4 to 1 kg/centimetre squared. In a semi-pressure lubrication system, many engine components are lubricated through the splash system, like the cylinder wall, piston pin, piston and connecting rod. However, the remaining parts are lubricated by a pressure system.
Wet sump lubrication
Wet-sump lubrication is widely used. In this system, oil is supplied from the sump strainer to various parts of the engine. After completing its lubrication process, the oil then returns to the sump. Since oil is always present in the sump, this lubricating system is known as “wet sump”.
Dry sump lubrication
Finally, the dry sump system is a method for deploying lubricating engine oil in large two-stroke and four-stroke internal combustion engines (ICE) that are piston-driven. The system employs two oil pumps, or sometimes even more, along with a dedicated oil reservoir instead of the cyclic process of a wet sump system.
