Tribological Investigation of Copper (Cu) and Copper Oxide (CuO) Nanoparticles Based Nanolubricants for Machine Tool Slideways

The present study intends to evaluate the tribological characteristics of Copper (Cu) and Copper oxide (CuO) based nanolubricant for its use in machine tool slideways. Different sizes of copper and copper oxide particles were chosen and physical characterisation were carried out using scanning electron microscope (SEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM). The nanolubricants were prepared by adding various proportions (0.1%, 0.25%, 0.4% wt) of the particles in Polyalphaolefin (PAO) base oil with lecithin and oleic acid surfactants. Friction and stick-slip characteristics of the nanolubricants were assessed using pin-on-block reciprocating friction monitor simulating the actual loading conditions prevailing in machine tool slideways. Studies were also conducted under elevated temperatures to ascertain the performance of particles at higher temperatures. Extreme pressure properties of the lubricants were studied using Four Ball Tester. The results of the experiments were compared with ISO VG 32 oil, a conventional mineral lubricant meant for machine tool slideways and it was found that the tribological properties nanolubricants using both the nanoparticles were considerably better. The coefficient of friction found to be decreased by 2.5% and 17.5% for copper particles with 0.1% weight composition in ambient temperature and elevated temperature respectively. Whereas for copper oxide particles with 0.1% weight composition a reduction of 14.25% and 10% were obtained.