Investigations on the Scuffing and Wear Characteristic Performance of an Oil Free Water-Based Lubricant for Gear Applications

In most gear drive applications mineral or synthetic oils are used as lubricants, which made of fossil raw materials and non-biodegradable. located in critical environmental areas such boats harbors, eco-friendly lubricants needed. As a result, transmission fluid based on water is currently being developed research project supported by the Bayrische Forschungsstiftung (Bavarian Research Foundation). Results former showed that general it possible to use water-based drives under certain operating conditions. Since has low viscosity compared conventional plant extracts added generate higher viscosities. order avoid tribological influenced damages sliding wear scuffing surface flanks, adequate additives Different combinations were investigated using test A/8.3/RT according DIN ISO 14635-1. The results show surprisingly high load carrying capacity regarding scuffing. Additionally, two tests DGMK 377-01 conducted with one sample fluid. A risk was detected. MTM SRV measurements different polymers optimize lubricant. help define conditions for future lubricant extracts. This paper aims share performed experimental investigations discusses challenges development new lubricants.