Studies on the tribological behaviour of two oil-soluble molybdenum compounds under reciprocating sliding conditions

The use of oil-soluble organo-molybdenum compounds in engine oils can help in fuel conservation by reducing engine friction and increase durability by improving wear characteristics. The tribological behaviour of molybdenum dialkyldithiophosphate (MoDDP) was studied with a SRV Optimal tester under reciprocating sliding conditions. The studies were conducted under nonconformal contact conditions on En-31 steel and conformal contact conditions on piston ring and liner materials. The results indicated that the frictional behaviour of these additives is shear sensitive. Shear sensitivity is influenced by materials, operating conditions and the interaction of MoDDP with additives present in the oil. MoDDP when used in base oil was found to increase the scuff resistance of ring and liner materials. The use of the additive reduced friction and wear (running in as well as normal) under nonconformal contact conditions, while under conformal contact conditions its effect was selective and limited.