Optimization of Friction and Wear Behavior of Industrial Lubricants Using Novel Bootstrap Trend Tests for Tribological Applications

In this paper, a systematic investigation of friction and wear properties of industrial lubricants is carried out by varying the parameters of speed and temperature. Novel bootstrap-based likelihood ratio trend tests have been applied to analyze the results of such experiments. Speed is varied at 600 and 1200 rpm, whereas temperature is varied at 30 and 75 °C. Properties like the coefficient of friction, wear scar diameter, wear scar surface roughness, and wear depth values have been measured for each test condition. Orderings of the best oils and test conditions have been obtained to determine the optimal oil and speed. The results of statistical analysis and experiments are seen to be in perfect concordance. Experimental observations indicate the optimal speed as 1200 rpm and temperature as 30 °C. This combined experimental and statistical approach can be of immense help in lubricant optimization in achieving improved service life and performance of industrial machinery, automotive, etc.