Liukulukuedustus

Liukulukuedustus is a term used in tribology and mechanical engineering to describe the design and application of lubricating layers on contact surfaces that move relative to each other. Its goal is to reduce friction and wear, thereby improving energy efficiency and component life. The concept covers a range of strategies, including liquid lubrication, dry-film lubrication, and solid-lubricant composites, as well as engineered coatings that form protective films during operation.

Key approaches include selecting appropriate lubricants for the operating regime and applying surface treatments or coatings that sustain low friction under load, temperature, and speed. Common lubricants range from mineral and synthetic oils to greases, while solid lubricants such as PTFE, graphite, MoS2, and diamond-like carbon coatings are used for boundary and mixed lubrication conditions. Surface engineering techniques, coatings and composites, and lubricant-containing materials are used to tailor friction, wear resistance, and compatibility with the surrounding environment.

Methods for applying these lubricants or coatings include deposition techniques such as physical vapor deposition (PVD), chemical vapor deposition (CVD), thermal spraying, and impregnation or diffusion treatments. Design considerations for liukulukuedustus involve controlling surface roughness, hardness, and microstructure, aligning material pairings with expected loads, temperatures, and speeds, and ensuring chemical and thermal stability of the lubrication layer.

Applications span bearings, gears, sliding interfaces, seals, and precision instruments in automotive, aerospace, machinery, and manufacturing sectors. Performance is evaluated through tribological testing, measuring friction coefficients, wear rates, and durability under representative operating conditions.

See also: tribology, dry film lubrication, boundary lubrication, solid lubricants.