Määrdeõli

Määrdeõli, often translated as lubricating oil, is a substance used to reduce friction between moving surfaces. It forms a thin film between the parts, preventing direct contact and thereby minimizing wear and heat generation. This reduction in friction also leads to improved efficiency in mechanical systems.

The primary function of määrdeõli is to lubricate. However, it also serves other important roles depending on the specific application. These can include cooling by carrying away heat, sealing to prevent the ingress of contaminants or the escape of gases, cleaning by suspending and removing debris, and protecting against corrosion by forming a barrier on metal surfaces.

Määrdeõli is typically composed of a base oil and various additives. The base oil can be mineral oil, derived from petroleum, or synthetic oil, which is chemically engineered for specific properties. Additives are chemical compounds blended into the base oil to enhance its performance. Common additives include anti-wear agents, detergents, dispersants, antioxidants, and viscosity index improvers.

The viscosity, or resistance to flow, of a määrdeõli is a critical property. It determines how well the oil can maintain a lubricating film under different operating temperatures and pressures. The selection of the appropriate määrdeõli depends on factors such as the type of machinery, operating conditions (temperature, load, speed), and desired service life. Incorrectly chosen or degraded määrdeõli can lead to premature equipment failure.