Monday, January 19, 2015

The Strides The Scientists Have Taken In Engine Friction Reduction

By Enid Hinton


In the automobile industry, the player who can save more fuel is already an edge above the others. The fuel economy is very critical, considering that the cost of fuel cost has been steadily rising. Other than just saving on fuel, there are several other potential benefits associated with engine friction reduction. These range from a smooth ride to a long lasting engine. In addition to these economic factors, there are a number of social-political considerations such as environmental impacts which puts into account the energy consumption and emissions.

This is the reason why pistons are now made of aluminum, unlike ages ago when the cast iron was the favorite. Aluminum is less dense, resulting in lower weight which in turn ensures that less force is used to turn the engine parts. In increased friction translates to more heat and also quickens the rate at which wear and tear take place. This all comes down to the low performance level and increase emission of undesirable gases into the atmosphere.

The need to eliminate engine friction gets even more important as the engineers are getting smarter. Today, a lot of consideration is given in every component that goes into the manufacturing of the engine, the lubricants used, and the fuel that goes in. The lower the friction, the more the horsepower per liter of displacement an automotive have.

The need to come up with a fuel efficient combustion system has pushed the specialist in this industry to the corner. Currently, consideration goes into the low tech, off-the-rack parts such as the cylinder rings, the seals, and the oil pump among other parts which are now designed to the premium rate equipment.

The need to use bearings that are smaller in size is also gaining popularity. These bearings are also coated with other metals, particularly the copper, tin or even lead and their compounds. The logic in size is that the smaller the bearing, the lesser the surface in contact which in turn means less wear and tear and even heat emitted. In many cases, thinner oil is also preferred all with the aim of minimizing friction.

The other areas that the scientists are pursuing to produce more fuel efficient automobiles include the introduction of valves rock that have slick coating and rollers. The other option is the use of pistons that have small coated skirt, and fitted with rings that produce low tension. These help push back against the piston drag. This is specifically important since the pistons contribute up to a quarter of all energy loss resulting from friction.

The other available alternatives include the use of polymer and Teflon seals. Many motor vehicle manufacturers are now opting for seals over the old-styled spring-loaded seals that previously used. This is just another example of the technology the engineers are considering. Tungsten ductile, a chemical compound commonly used in the space agency NASA as a lubricant, and later widely used in auto racing has not been largely exploited by other ordinary vehicles largely due to its cost and complexity. However, some companies are now rubbing it on the engine parts to give a wear and heat resistant surface.

Regardless of the method used the need to improve efficiency and reduced carbon emission is the main drivers that keep engineers sleepless with the hope of achieving the most user friendly and environmental friendly vehicles for the future generation.




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