Experimental investigation wear of the power cell assembly of an internal combustion engine operated with ethanol through vibration and oil analysis

The durability test is an experimental test widely used in the automotive industry to verify the ability of an engine to withstand all operating conditions throughout its useful life. The test is performed on a dynamometric bench that subjects the engine to specific operating cycles. The objective of this study was to monitoring the level of wear of the power cell assembly and the performance of the engine operated with ethanol during the durability test. Wear monitoring was performed through the application of vibration analysis and lubricating oil analysis techniques. The results showed that the level of wear and performance of the engine after the durability test were considered satisfactory. Compared to durability tests previously conducted without monitoring, the analysis of wear metals in the lubricating oil and oil properties, combined with vibration analysis throughout the durability test, allowed for safe testing with a shorter total test time, optimized technical downtime and reduced wear on engine components. The application of vibration analysis and lubricating oil analysis techniques was important in monitoring wear and allowed the complete completion of the test.