Date of Graduation

5-2011

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering

Degree Level

Undergraduate

Department

Mechanical Engineering

Advisor/Mentor

Malshe, Ajay P.

Committee Member/Reader

Gordon, Matthew H.

Abstract

Nano particle based additives have become a main focal point in the design of new lubricants, in order to better achieve reduction in both friction and wear. Previous research has led to the development of one such lubricant known as NanoGlide® by a company called NanoMech, Inc. The success of this initial lubricant design encouraged the research and potential development of new formulations of nano particle based lubricants by NanoMech, Inc. Using tribological testing, and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), this research analyzed the behavior and performance of three new nano additives (NanoGlide 1, NanoGlide2, and NanoGlide3) in three different lubricant base fluids (Metal Working Fluid (MWF), vegetable oil, and a water based emulsion). The results showed a significant decrease in mean coefficient of friction (COF) values for each of the three nano additives when compared to the base fluids. NanoGlide 1 showed the greatest average decrease in mean COF (29.2%), while NanoGlide 3 showed the second greatest (13.8%), and NanoGlide 2 showed the lowest (11.9%). SEM analysis showed the base MWF, when combined with the nano additives, had the lowest density of wear scars, while the water based emulsion showed the greatest. No correlation could be determined between the nano additives and the wear resistance, therefore future study is needed.

Download

Share

COinS