Friction Reduction in valve Trains: The Influence of Friction Reducing Oil Additives

The influence of friction reducing oil additives was assessed as- part of a broader study of valve train friction. Experiments were performed using a motored valve train to measure overall oil effects. Experiments were carried out using a cam/tappet tribometer to evaluate the detailed behavior of the cam/tappet contact. Both sliding and roller tappets were employed in the study the results illustrate the potential for the reduction of frictional losses in sliding cam/tappet contacts through lubricant optimization.