Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

Department of Mechanical Engineering

Programme B. Eng (Mechanical Engineering)

Second Semester Examination (2012/2013 Session)
Course Code /Title: MEEN Lubrication Theory (1 Credit Unit)
Instructions: The paper contains five (5) questions. Answer any three (3) questions only
All questions carry equal marks. Time Allowed 1 hour 15min.

1. (a) Define the following terms:

(I) Newtonian fluids (ii) Plastic fluids (iii) Ideal fluids

(b) Describe two most common test principles used in the measurement of friction.
(c) The dynamic viscosity of oil used for lubrication between a shaft and sleeve is 6
POISE. THE SHAFT DIAMETER IS 0.4m and rotates at 190pm. Calculate the power lost in the
bearing for a sleave length of 90mm. The thickness of the oil film is 1.5mm.

2. (a) What is wear? Explain the characteristics of the following types of surface damage:

(i) Surface damage without exchange of material

(ii) Surface damage with loss of material (wear)
(iii) Surface damage with gain of material

(b) Mention five classifications of oil according to their usage.

(c) Distinguish between synthetic and mineral oils. Give two (2) examples each.

3. (a) Briefly describe the following lubrication processes:

(i) Boundary (ii) Extreme pressure

(b) State the three laws governing rolling friction.

(c) A plate having an area of 0.6ms is sliding down the inclined plane at 30 degree to
the horizontal with a velocity of 0.35, /s. There is a cushion of fluid 1.8mm thick
between the plane and the plate. Find the viscosity of the fluid if the weight of the plate
is 280N.
4. (a) (i) Explain the factors considered in the classification of grease.

(ii) State any five factors considered in oil classification.

(b) A plate 0.05mm distant from a fixed plate moves at 1.2m/s and requires a force
of 2.2N/m2 to maintain this speed. Find the viscosity of the fluid between the plates.
 (c) Define the following terms: (i) Emulsification and (i) Saponification number.

5. (a) Briefly explain the following classification of lubricants:

(i) Solid lubricants

(ii) Liquid lubricants

(b) Explain the term Lubricant consolidation

(c) Give three (3) examples of additives used in lubricants

(d) State any five (5) benefits of using clean oils in mechanical systems.