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It is generally accepted that significant gains in fuel economy can be accomplished by reducing friction between the moving surfaces in key engine components (e.g. valvetrain, piston, crankshaft). This paper provides an overview of how specific tribological/rheological properties (e.g. viscosity, volatility, friction coefficient, film thickness, wear volume) can be considered in the design of fuel efficient crankcase engine lubricants that promote high wear resistance. Here, an example in how base stock, viscosity modifier (VM) and friction modifier (FM) can impact the surface friction is given. Friction and wear measurements from bench level lubrication characterization test methods mainly, high frequency reciprocating rig (HFRR) and mini-traction machine (MTM), are presented.

The overall purpose of this research is to determine the antiwear capability of low phosphorus engine oils containing 0.05 wt% phosphorus. The antiwear performance of 0.05 wt% phosphorus engine oils was evaluated using a laboratory valvetrain bench test rig coupled with an on-line wear measurement technique and a high frequency reciprocating rig (HFRR). Low phosphorus engine oils were compared with GF-3 engine oils containing 0.1 wt% phosphorus. In addition to fresh oils, long drain used oils from fleet vehicles were also analyzed and investigated. This information is important to develop engine oil formulations to meet the latest government emission and fuel economy requirements. The results indicate that by appropriately selecting and balancing supplemental antiwear and/or antioxidation additives the wear loss due to the reduction of zinc dialkyldithiophosphate (ZDDP) may be compensated or even reduced.

Future vehicle emission regulations both in the US and Europe will require maintaining catalyst efficiency for longer mileage intervals. In order to achieve this requirement, chemical restrictions are being placed on elements in engine oil that can poison catalysts. Most of phosphorus and a significant amount of sulfur in current engine oils come from zinc dialkyldithiophosphates, ZDDPs, which are a class of cost-effective multifunctional additives providing wear, oxidation and corrosion protection. Reducing ZDDP concentrations raises oxidation and wear concerns. The overall purpose of this research is to look at the antioxidation and antiwear capability of low phosphorus engine oils containing 0.05 wt% phosphorus and the potential of engine oils formulated without phosphorus. In addition to fresh oils, used oils drained from fleet vehicles were also analyzed and evaluated.