Polyisobutylene succinimide (PIBSO) is a special additive used in lubricating oils. Its excellent viscosity characteristics and friction improving properties make it occupy an important position in the lubricating oil market. However, the dispersion of PIBSO has an important impact on its performance in lubricating oils. This article will take an in-depth look at the dispersion of PIBSO oil additives in lubricants.
- Characteristics of PIBSO oil additives
Polyisobutylene succinimide (PIBSO) is a special polymer formed by the reaction of polyisobutylene and succinimide. Due to the polar groups contained in its molecular structure, PIBSO can effectively improve the extreme pressure performance and load-carrying capacity of lubricants. At the same time, its non-polar polyisobutylene segment ensures the viscosity characteristics of the lubricating oil. Therefore, PIBSO is an ideal lubricant additive.
- The importance of dispersion
In lubricants, the dispersion of additives is critical to their performance. Poor dispersion will cause the additives to precipitate in the lubricating oil and cannot be evenly distributed, which will affect the friction and extreme pressure properties of the lubricating oil. Good dispersion allows the additives to fully play their role in the lubricating oil and improve the lubrication effect.
- Factors affecting dispersion
Temperature: Temperature is an important factor affecting the dispersion of PIBSO in lubricating oil. At lower temperatures, PIBSO may precipitate at the bottom of the lubricant, causing it to be unevenly dispersed. At higher temperatures, PIBSO will be better dissolved in lubricating oil and improve its dispersion.
Shear force: Shear force can promote the dispersion of PIBSO in lubricating oil. During mechanical operation, the lubricating oil will be subjected to shear force, which helps the dispersion of PIBSO in the lubricating oil.
Particle size of the additive: The particle size of the additive also affects its dispersion in the lubricant. Finer particles provide greater surface area, allowing additives to dissolve into the lubricant more quickly.
- Methods to improve dispersion
Select the appropriate solvent: By selecting the appropriate solvent, the solubility of PIBSO in lubricating oil can be improved, thereby improving its dispersion.
Increase shear force: In lubricating oil systems, the dispersion of PIBSO can be promoted by increasing shear force. For example, using a high-pressure pump or increasing the circulation volume of the lubricant can make it better dispersed in the lubricant.
Lower the temperature: Lowering the temperature of the lubricant can increase the solubility of PIBSO, thereby improving its dispersion. Therefore, keeping the lubricating oil at a low temperature helps to improve the dispersion of PIBSO.
Control additive particle size: Choosing additives with finer particle sizes provides greater surface area, allowing the additive to dissolve in the lubricant more quickly. Therefore, controlling the particle size of additives is also an important means to improve their dispersion in lubricating oil.
Polyisobutylene succinimide (PIBSO) is an excellent lubricant additive, but due to its special molecular structure and physical properties, its dispersion has an important impact on its performance in lubricants. By understanding and mastering the factors that affect the dispersion of PIBSO in lubricating oil, we can take effective measures to improve its dispersion and thereby improve the performance of the lubricating oil. This is of great significance for improving the efficiency of mechanical equipment and extending its service life.