Analysis of lubricating oils in shear friction tests using infrared thermography

The aim of this work is to analyze the ability of Thermography to monitor the behavior of SAE 20 W50 API SJ and ISO VG 10 lubricating oils from the thermal point of view until the moment of the lubricant film rupture, characterized by the sudden increase in friction, noise, vibration and Temperature in a shear friction test. The methodology used is based on the analysis of thermograms that indicate temperature profiles during the friction tests and at the moment of mechanical failure, comparing these results with those obtained by a thermocouple. The specimens, consisting of SAE 1045 steel cylindrical pins, are rubbed against a wear ring consisting of a weld-locked bearing under the condition of a boundary lubrication regime. Tests were performed by increasing load conditions up to 180 N at 10, 15 and 20 Hz rotations (600, 900 and 1200 rpm). The results show the qualitative and quantitative capacity of the Thermography in the detection of scuffing considering the emissivity of the lubricating oil film equal to 0,82. It is concluded that the Thermography can be used for the detection of the breaking of the lubricating film in pin-on-ring friction tests.