Work

Investigation of Performance Degradation in Calcium-Based Grease Under Combined SiO2 Particle and Water Contamination

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Environmental contamination critically affects the durability and performance of lubricants in machine components. Over long operating periods, particles and water ingress through degraded seals accelerate grease degradation and deteriorate tribological behavior. This study evaluates the effects of SiO2 particle concentration and water contamination, alone and in combination, on the performance of calcium-based grease in bearing steel contacts. Friction coefficients, grease temperatures, wear, pitting, and vibration signals were analyzed. The results show that an increase in particle concentration raised both friction and temperature, leading to more severe wear and pitting. The addition of 0.6 wt% water reduced fluctuations in friction and temperature, but when combined with high particle concentrations, it significantly worsened wear and pitting. The vibration-based energy ratio correlated strongly with pitting evolution, highlighting its potential as a sensitive parameter for monitoring surface fatigue. These findings provide insights into lubricant degradation under contaminated conditions and offer guidance for improving the reliability of lubricated systems.

Source: Lubricants

DOI: 10.3390/lubricants13110499

Authors: Thi-Na Ta, Shin-Yuh Chern, Jeng-Haur Horng, Chun-Wei Kuo, Sheng-Jie Liao

Institutions: Chienkuo Technology University, National Formosa University, National Cheng Kung University

Language: English

Topic: Lubricants and Their Additives

Subfield: Mechanical Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,137

Funders: Ministry of Science and Technology, Taiwan, National Science and Technology Council