Morphology investigation of worn bearing surfaces using SiO₂ nanolubrication system

The new technology that uses nanoparticles as additive of lubricant has become an attractive study recently. The performance of nano-SiO₂ which acts as the nanoparticle in the lubrication system is investigated. Tests were conducted at nanolubrication mixing ratio of 0.0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.5, 0.55, 0.6, and 0.8 wt.% of SiO₂ with plain bearings using a 2,750 rpm high-speed rotating motor. For each mixing ration, the frictional temperature and weight loss of plain bearings were recorded and compared. During the surface morphology, the worn bearing surfaces are investigated by scanning electron microscopy. The surface element analysis was also employed to get more morphology investigation by using energy dispersive x-ray spectrometer as well as element mapping. The results showed that tribology performance of nanolubricant is at optimum by using 0.5 wt.% mixing ratio.