Effects of Biomass Fast Pyrolysis Fuel on the Tribological Behaviour of Heavy-Duty Diesel Engine Lubricating Oil

Abstract

The fuel type not only influences the engine power and exhaust emissions, but dilutes the lubricating oil. We studied the effects of biomass fast pyrolysis fuel, or biofuel, on the tribological behaviour of a fully formulated engine oil (FFEO) used for heavy-duty diesel engines by reciprocating a sliding tribometer, which simulated the tribological conditions of an engine cylinder liner and piston ring. We analysed the surface morphology, surface roughness, and elemental contents of countersurfaces through scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersant spectroscopy and surface roughness measurements. The wear mechanism was studied by analysing the compositions and kinematic viscosities of the oil samples. The results indicate that the friction coefficient increased along with the emulsified biomass fuel (EBF) content in FFEO. The wear mass loss and EBF content were simultaneously increased. The wear mechanism was mainly attributed to the corrosion function of the biofuel.