fluid-film lubrication
Quick Summary
Fluid-film lubrication is a technology that involves interposing a fluid film to completely separate sliding surfaces, thereby reducing wear and friction. This fluid can be a liquid, most commonly oil, or a gas, typically air.1
There are two main ways a fluid film is maintained:
* Hydrostatic lubrication: An external source supplies pressure to the fluid film.1
* Hydrodynamic lubrication: The pressure within the film is generated by the motion and shape of the sliding surfaces themselves, relying on the lubricant's viscous properties.12
This type of lubrication is crucial in machine components like bearings, where it prevents direct metal-to-metal contact, significantly lowering friction compared to unlubricated surfaces.12
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