Lubrication Requirements of European Automotive Diesel Engines

A survey of production statistics, design types and application of high speed automotive diesel engines (rated speed > 1800 rpm) in Western Europe has been conducted, together with a forecast in market trends. Lubrication problems of these engines have been under review by the CEC Investigation Group IGL-5, highlighting lubricant related problem areas such as bore polishing, valve train wear, oil thickening, and ring sticking. These problems have been analysed within the IGL-5 Group and the suitability of existing standardised test methods for present and anticipated European needs has been reviewed. This has shown the necessity to develop specific test methods covering bore polishing and valve train wear. Further examination in the other problem areas identified has been initiated.