Tribological properties of MoS2 particles as lubricant additive on the performance of statically loaded radial journal bearings

Abstract

It is very important to reduce power losses for plain bearings used in industry and especially in automobiles. In recent years, inorganic compounds have been added to the engine oils to reduce friction in plain bearings and increase their performance. In this study, the effects of additive oil obtained by adding 1% by weight Molybdenum Disulfide (MoS2) to the base hydraulic (or lubricating) oil (Shell Tellus 10) on the statically loaded radial journal bearing performance were experimentally investigated. As a result of experiments, it was determined that MoS2 added engine oil showed less friction behavior by forming a better oil film compared to the base oil at increasing bearing load and temperatures, and therefore exhibited less wear and power loss.