Effects of Lubrication on the Wear Parameters of Metals Using Pin-on-Disk Test Rig

Friction and wear control of movable parts in machines remain a critical challenge in the industries. Determination of measurement to control this often involves both the material and the lubricant. A wear test experiment using pin-on-disk apparatus to determine the wear pattern on a sample of aluminium and copper materials, lubricated with vegetable oil of palm kernel origin was conducted. Wear parameters, which include frictional coefficient, wear rate, and heat generation (temperature) were evaluated alongside thermal stress-strains on the pin on disk. Results showed that under the same conditions, the coefficient of friction reduces with the application of lubricant up to 84% and 7% for aluminium and copper respectively. The wear pattern for both materials when lubricated were evaluated and compared with dry condition to establish the relationships.