Nanoenhanced biolubricant for improving lubrication in roller bearing steel-steel contact surfaces - a comparative tribological study

The performance of roller bearings is often compromised by the excessive temperature rise and wear, which encourages the author to search for a more effective lubrication solution. This study examines the heat transfer capability of a bio-based nanolubricant blend to improve heat transfer and reduce wear in roller-bearing fatigue load conditions. In this study, Elaeis guineensis and mineral oil blend used in addition to functionalized multiwall carbon nanotubes. The lubricant's thermo-rheological results were evaluated over 1000 h of operation using NJ307 cylindrical roller bearings. The study quantified the lubricants rheological behaviour, film thickness, classification of wear debris, and changes in temperature with the proposed nanolubricant blend and compared the results with commercial grade lubricant. The findings indicated that the nanolubricant attained a temperature reduction of up to 37 % compared to traditional mineral oil. A significant surface wear reduction observed in nanolubricated bearing due to stable enhanced nanolubrication film developed between steel-steel contact surfaces. This experimental study provides substantial insights into nanomaterial-enhanced bio-lubricants, which demonstrate improved sustainability and performance in industrial bearing systems, hence promoting their potential commercial application.