Määrdeolekud

Määrdeolekud, a Finnish term, translates to "lubrication states" or "friction regimes" in English. It refers to the different conditions under which two sliding surfaces interact, primarily determined by the degree of contact between them and the presence and thickness of a lubricant film. These states are crucial in understanding and predicting wear, friction, and the overall performance of mechanical systems.

The concept of määrdeolekud is typically described in a spectrum. At one end lies boundary lubrication, where the lubricant film is very thin, and direct metal-to-metal contact occurs. In this state, friction is high, and wear is significant. As the speed or load changes, or if the lubricant properties are altered, the system can move towards mixed lubrication. Here, there is a combination of asperity contact and some lubricant film support.

Further along the spectrum is hydrodynamic lubrication, where a sufficiently thick lubricant film completely separates the surfaces, preventing direct contact. Friction is low, and wear is minimal. The thickest film is found in full film lubrication, a more ideal form of hydrodynamic lubrication. The specific määrdeolekud experienced depends on factors such as speed, load, lubricant viscosity, temperature, and surface roughness. Understanding these states allows engineers to select appropriate lubricants and design systems that operate within optimal lubrication conditions, thereby extending component life and improving efficiency.