Determining Frictional Characteristics of Engine Oils by Engine Friction and Viscosity Measurements

The frictional response of an engine to a particular engine oil depends on the combined effects of the oil’s viscosity and additives which modify rubbing friction during boundary lubrication. A single-cylinder engine friction test is described which measures the frictional characteristics of an oil. These frictional results are integrated with high shear rate viscosity measurements, enabling the individual effects of viscosity and additives on friction level to be viewed separately.