Lubrication
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Lubrication occurs when opposing surfaces are separated by a lubricant film. The applied load is carried by pressure generated within the fluid, and frictional resistance to motion arises entirely from the shearing of the viscous fluid. The science of friction, lubrication and wear is called tribology. Lubrication is classified into three major categories:
- Hydrodynamic lubrication (HL) (the opposing surfaces are completely separated - like aquaplaning on a road)
- Elastohydrodynamic lubrication (EHL or EHD) (the opposing surfaces are completely separated and the solid bodies deformed by a major load)
- Boundary lubrication (the bodies are not entirely separated)
Lubrication is required for correct operation of engines and many other mechanical systems where parts must slide over each other without seizing.
[edit] See also
Look up lubrication in Wiktionary, the free dictionary.
- Lubricant
- Lubrication theory
- Bearing (mechanical)
- Grease (lubricant)
- Oils
- Society of Tribologists and Lubrication Engineers
