IMPROVING THE OPERATIONAL EFFICIENCY OF DIESEL-POWERED GAS ENGINES THROUGH THE USE OF ENERGY-SAVING ENGINE OILS

Abstract

The article considers the possibility of increasing the operational efficiency of gas engines converted from diesel engines by using energy-saving engine oils with improved viscosity-temperature and tribological properties. The relevance of the study is related to the fact that when a diesel engine is switched to gas fuel, the combustion conditions, the thermal stress of the cylinder-piston group parts, the nature of oil aging and the mode of formation of the lubricating film change. Unlike the diesel mode, where soot is one of the main factors of oil pollution, the processes of thermal oxidation and nitration are more pronounced in gas engines. This requires not only the correct choice of the viscosity class of the oil, but also the use of additives capable of reducing friction, stabilizing the oil film and slowing down oil degradation.

A comprehensive approach to the assessment of energy-saving oils is proposed, including an analysis of kinematic viscosity, viscosity index, alkaline and acid numbers, engine temperature conditions, and tribological parameters. It is proved that for city buses running on compressed natural gas, the effectiveness of the oil should be assessed not only by reducing fuel consumption, but also by its ability to maintain protective properties in conditions of frequent starts, stops, idling and increased thermal load. The practical significance of the work lies in the possibility of applying the obtained provisions in the selection and development of engine oils for gas-powered vehicles operated in urban transport conditions.