Friction Reduction of Palm Kernel Activated Carbon Polymer Composite by Lubricant Impregnation

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to propose a technique for friction reduction of palm kernel activated carbon (PKAC) polymer composite by palm oil, paraffin oil and water impregnations. A biocomposite sample formed by mixing epoxy and PKAC was made using the method of powder metallurgy. Before test of dry sliding, the sample was impregnated with palm oil, paraffin oil, and water for about 1-8 days. The test of dry sliding was then conducted at room temperature and by applying constant load, sliding distance and sliding speed. The test of sustainability for checking the biocomposite's ability of maintaining the lubricant was also carried out without any more impregnation. A considerable amount of friction of lubricant-impregnated PKAC composite is reduced although there is increases in residual depth due to plastic deformation in comparison to the sample devoid of any impregnation. Water impregnation caused an unexpected rise in the coefficient of friction within the initial few hours following which it became comparatively steady. The sample impregnated with palm and paraffin oils can soak up the lubricant and sustain it for some time prior to the subsequent inflow. More decrease on the coefficient of friction and residual depth were noticed when the soaking time was raised. Besides, no wear is observed on the surface of all samples impregnated with palm oil. Thus, the application of bio-based lubricant to obtain an improved performance in comparison to the synthetic oil is more worthwhile.

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“…Various efforts have been made to eliminate or at least minimize friction losses such as introducing lubrication and its additives (Abdullah et al , 2016; Abdullah et al , 2014), development of new materials (Mahmud et al , 2019; Mahmud et al , 2017; Mat Tahir et al , 2016; Mat Tahir et al , 2015; Chua et al , 2014; Mustafa et al , 2014) and surface modifications (Amiruddin et al , 2019; Mohmad et al , 2017; Abdollah et al , 2013; Abdollah et al , 2011).…”

“…Amiruddin et al (2019) attempt to reduce friction and wear by lubricant impregnated into the palm kernel-activated carbon epoxy composite for a certain period before a dry sliding test. They found that the composite porosity absorbs the lubricant and acts as a reservoir to reduce friction despite left to be dried for a specified period.…”