Enhanced tribological performance of porous journal bearings using a 1,3-Diketone friction modifier

Purpose Porous journal bearings (PJBs) can exhibit self-lubricating behavior during operation; however, their relatively high friction and temperature rise place higher demands on the lubricants used. Therefore, the present study aims to introduce highly effective lubricating materials to enhance the tribological performance of the PJBs. Design/methodology/approach 1,3-diketone fluid EPND (1–(4-ethyl phenyl) nonane-1,3-dione), a so-called “superlubricity material,” was introduced as a friction modifier into two base oils of different viscosities. The friction test was performed on a self-made journal-bearing test rig to explore the effects of its modification. Findings Results suggested that the EPND additive could effectively lower the coefficient of friction, the wear and the temperature rise of PJB. The enhanced tribological performance of PJB was attributed to the tribochemical reaction between EPND and steel surfaces, which made the contact surfaces smooth and generated a strongly adsorbed layer on the surface. Originality/value This application-oriented work validates the direct benefits brought by 1,3-diketone superlubricity material as a friction modifier in real journal bearings, indicating that EPND has great potential for application in PJBs. Peer review The peer review history for this article is available at: Link to the cited article.