Exam Question
Explain latest developments in Marine 'Tribology'. Discuss the inferences you may draw from a Main Engine Lub oil analysis report with the proposed corrective action in each case (16)
Class 1 (Chief Engineer)
Engineering Management
📅 Jan 2024
Reference Answer
### **Part 1: Latest Developments in Marine Tribology**
Tribology is the science and engineering of interacting surfaces in relative motion, encompassing the study of friction, wear, lubrication, and the design of bearings. In the marine context, it is critical for ensuring the reliability, efficiency, and longevity of machinery. Recent developments are driven by regulatory pressures (emissions, environmental protection), economic factors (fuel efficiency), and technological advancements.
**1. Advanced Lubricants & Additives:**
* **Fuel-Specific Lubricants:** The shift to Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (VLSFO) and Ultra Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (ULSFO) to comply with IMO 2020 has necessitated the development of lubricants with lower Base Numbers (BN), such as BN25 and BN40. Using traditional high-BN (e.g., BN70, BN100) oils with low-sulphur fuel can lead to excessive ash deposits on piston crowns and exhaust valves, causing operational problems. New additive packages are designed to maintain engine cleanliness and anti-wear properties without a high alkaline reserve.
Tribology is the science and engineering of interacting surfaces in relative motion, encompassing the study of friction, wear, lubrication, and the design of bearings. In the marine context, it is critical for ensuring the reliability, efficiency, and longevity of machinery. Recent developments are driven by regulatory pressures (emissions, environmental protection), economic factors (fuel efficiency), and technological advancements.
**1. Advanced Lubricants & Additives:**
* **Fuel-Specific Lubricants:** The shift to Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (VLSFO) and Ultra Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (ULSFO) to comply with IMO 2020 has necessitated the development of lubricants with lower Base Numbers (BN), such as BN25 and BN40. Using traditional high-BN (e.g., BN70, BN100) oils with low-sulphur fuel can lead to excessive ash deposits on piston crowns and exhaust valves, causing operational problems. New additive packages are designed to maintain engine cleanliness and anti-wear properties without a high alkaline reserve.
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