On the Flow Dynamics of Polymer Greases

• In this paper, the flow dynamics of polymer greases was investigated using micro-particle image velocimetry. Polymer greases have a different thickener structure, compared to widely used lithium-based greases, and they have the well-known ability to release oil. How these properties affect grease deformation and its ability to flow is investigated and compared to the corresponding behavior of a lithium complex grease with the same consistency. Two main tests were carried out, where velocity profiles in a straight channel were measured and analyzed, and velocity evolution during the transition period from a no-flow to a fully-established flow was measured, respectively. It was found that the polymer grease flow dynamics is different from that of the lithium grease. This indicates that the internal structure of the grease and the grease ability to bleed oil have a strong influence on the deformation on a global scale, which in turn entails other lubricating abilities for the two grease types.

Ämnesord

TEKNIK OCH TEKNOLOGIER  -- Maskinteknik -- Tribologi (hsv//swe)

ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY  -- Mechanical Engineering -- Tribology (hsv//eng)

Nyckelord

lubricating grease

polymer thickener

lithium grease

flow dynamics

rheology

micro-particle image velocimetry

oil bleeding

transitional flow

Strömningslära

Fluid Mechanics

Publikations- och innehållstyp

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