New & emerging automotive technologies demand greater performing lubricants and engine oils. The trends of electrification & hybrid transmissions introduce new challenges for today’s lubricant formulators. Learn how Afton’s HiTEC® Lubricant Additives are a great way to prepare your portfolio for tomorrow’s technology!
e-Mobility and New Technology
Automotive technology is constantly tasked with increasing efficiency, power, and fuel economy. Consumer trends and government backed subsidies contribute largely to the shift towards electrification and implementation of hybrid engines. These engine technology changes have their own shifts in lubrication requirements and the demands for protective oils, learn how to stay ahead of these changes with Afton HiTEC® Driveline Lubricant Additives.
Drivetrain Types & e-Mobility
There are 4 major drivetrain categories in today’s automotive market, each variety has their own mechanical and electrical factors that need to be considered when designing a new lubricant.
Traditional Drivetrain
General Lubrication Challenges
- High Temperatures & Cooling Performance
- High Speed Mechanical Movements
- Rubber/Elastomer Compatibilty
- Viscosity Control at Low/High Temps
- Much More
As automotive OEM’s design smaller, more efficient electric engines it’s clear that newly designed lubricants, oils and greases need to adapt for compatibility and protection of new electronic components.
Electric Motors
The mechanical stresses and movement in an electric motor varies greatly from those of the internal combustion engine. Lubricant formulators will have to focus on proper NLGI consistency, performance additive compatibility and thickener systems to employ. These lubricants are also expected to last considerably longer in comparison to conventional lubricants and to do so will require higher quality and synthetic based chemistries with slower breakdown rates.
Power Electronics
These critical and complex components convert the stored energy within the battery system as direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC). Electric motors and generators then use this energy to drive power to the wheels. Dielectric strength and electrical resistance in lubricants will become increasingly more important as engines and components become more technologically advanced.
Gearbox Reduction
For most hybrid and electric vehicles, the electric motor output RPM is too high and needs to be “reduced” while optimizing torque and delivered power. The lubrication requirements will remain largely the same in this application – high pressure capability, surface protection and antiwear performance.
Differentials & Fluid Requirements
Lubricating differentials and the requirements can vary greatly depending on the automobile size and drive system (front, rear, AWD). But what all differential lubes have in common is the need to protect the ring and pinion gears that allow power transfer from driveshaft to the axle. These gear surfaces can experience incredibly high pressure, surface wear and temperature exposure that can lead to severe damage or failure if poorly protected.
Afton Solutions & e-mobility Claims
Afton has an impressive portfolio of driveline lubricant additives and can now offer solutions with specific claims and industry expectations for e-mobility applications. The following table lists the supporting data available to demonstrate acceptable performance for the following industry and OEM based performance specifications.
