What Are the Functions of Lubricating Oil?

Lubricating oils are used for a variety of machines such as locomotives.

While lubricating oils are mostly used to reduce friction in a variety of circumstances, lubricating oils can serve several other beneficial functions. These oils are often created to serve additional functions by having specialized chemicals added to them.

Reduce Friction

The main purpose of lubricating oils is to reduce friction. Friction can reduce the speed of actions and also cause damage. For instance, lubrication added to gears will increase the speed in which the gears operate and reduce wear and tear on the gears.

Coolant

Lubricating oils can be used as cooling agents.

Rust Inhibition

Some lubricants contain alkaline amines that inhibit rusting in metal machinery.

Particle Cleaning

Through wear and tear, machinery often sheds particles. The particles get trapped in the lubricating oils and then drip off of the machinery.

Sealant

Lubricating oils can block contaminants that might damage surfaces, thereby acting as sealants.

References

• Lubricating Oil for Small Scale Live Steam Locomotives
• Classifications of Lubricating Oil Base Stocks