We uncovered an insightful article by the vaunted lubricant-additives manufacturer Lubrizol that helps to set the record straight about the changing needs of gear box lubrication in the 21st century. In a nutshell, gear boxes aren’t what they used to be and so, neither can be their lubricants.
Quoting Lubrizol, “Today’s gearboxes are made from new materials, which results in a lighter weight of the gearbox. They are required to produce more power and to be more durable and reliable than their predecessors. In addition, the teeth and bearing loads are also higher.” On top of these developments, gear boxes today are smaller than in previous decades, which means there’s less room for lubrication than in previous years. This of course can lead to more oxidation and higher operating temperatures, both of which will affect the gear box as well as the lubrication’s longevity.
To address these issues, lubrication must evolve even as gear boxes themselves have evolved and continue to evolve. Indeed, changing specifications such as GM LS-2 require gear box lubrication to continue to develop. One of the best ways for these lubricants to evolve is through the use of additives – an area of expertise for Lubrizol since World War 1.
Additives for gear box lubrication can help hard-working lubricants to handle extreme pressure, deactivate metals, modify friction and viscosity and more. These lubricants can then go beyond mere mineral-based gear oils and manifest special attributes needed for specific industries – such as increased load-carrying capabilities or the power to operate in contact with food or even be used in conjunction with work in wind turbines.
As gear boxes continue to evolve, so will additives and additive technology.
Contact Stevenson Oil today to learn about industrial oil and other lubrication options.