Environmentally Acceptable Lubricants for Stern Tube Application: Shear Stability and Friction Factor

Stern tube lubricants are essential in maritime operations, safeguarding ship propeller shafts from wear and corrosion while ensuring efficient propulsion. Their role in reducing friction and maintaining system integrity is critical. With growing environmental concerns, the adoption of environmentally acceptable lubricants (EALs) for stern tubes has gained importance, balancing operational performance with environmental protection. This study investigates the rheological and tribological properties of EALs formulated for ship propeller stern tube applications. The primary focus is on comparing these EALs with conventional mineral oils to assess their suitability in marine environments. EALs are increasingly favored due to their biodegradability and reduced environmental impact. Key parameters such as shear stability, friction factor, and temperature dependency were evaluated using a range of experimental methods including rotational viscometry and tribological analysis. The results indicate that the newly formulated EALs based on synthetic esters exhibit the highest viscosity index, a higher range of shear stability, and lower friction factors, compared to commercially available mineral oils, especially under varying operational conditions. These findings contribute to the ongoing efforts to promote eco-friendly lubricants in maritime industries, aligning with global environmental protection initiatives.