Numerical evaluation of the potential for fuel economy improvement due to boundary friction reduction within heavy-duty diesel engines

Advanced surface treatments have been developed by a number of research institutes as an approach to reduce friction at sliding interfaces. Laboratory tests have shown that some of these surface treatments can result in boundary friction reductions approaching an order of magnitude [1], [2], [3]. While there are many potential applications for such surface treatments, friction reduction in internal combustion engines is of particular interest due to the apparent fuel savings potential. Ricardo, Inc. has performed simulations to estimate potential fuel economy improvements due to the application of such treatments at key interfaces within engines typical of those used in large trucks. The results show that fuel economy improvements in excess of 4% can be achieved from combined application of a surface treatment and reduction in lubricant viscosity, if the surfaces can be protected against wear.