Considerations on the Influence of Rheological Properties of lubricants on Engine Lubrication

Viscosity represents the most important single property of any lubricant for internal combustion engines. The reason for this fact is that viscosity controls friction or lubrication regimes and consequently wear and performance life of the engine.

Because of viscosity depending on temperature, pressure, and often shear rate, the local viscosity at the frictional contacts defined as effective viscosity will be responsible for the friction and wear situation at a specific location within the engine.