Influence of bearing materials on plain bearing performance in low viscosity base oil lubrication

Although the lowering engine oil viscosity is effective to improve the fuel efficiency of automobiles, its research has not been advanced because of the concern about a plain bearing lubrication. The plain bearing performance was evaluated with low viscosity base oils using a newly developed apparatus which enables the simulation under the automotive conditions. As a result, it was found that the friction coefficient and the contact condition between the plain bearing of Cu-Pb alloy and the shaft were different from that of Al-Si alloy. It is important to consider the plain bearing materials for the design of engine oils.