Answer: The functions of lubricating oil are lubrication, cooling, flushing, sealing, vibration reduction, unloading, protection, etc.
(1) Lubrication. Improve friction conditions, reduce friction, prevent wear, and reduce power consumption.
(2) Cooling. Most of the heat generated during friction is taken away by the lubricating oil, and a small amount of heat is directly dissipated through conduction and radiation.
(3) Flushing. The debris from wear can be taken away by the lubricating oil, which is called flushing. The quality of flushing has a great influence on wear. The lubricating oil formed between the friction surfaces is very thin. Metal debris staying on the friction surfaces will destroy the oil film, form dry friction, and cause abrasive wear.
(4) Sealing. The seal between the cylinder wall and the piston of the air compressor is achieved by the sealing effect of the lubricating oil.
(5) Vibration reduction. The friction parts move on the oil film, as if floating on the "oil pillow", which has a certain buffering effect on the vibration of the equipment.
(6) Unloading. Because there is an oil film between the friction surfaces, the load acting on the friction surface is distributed more evenly on the friction surface through the oil film. This effect of the oil film is called unloading effect.
(7) Protective effect. It can prevent corrosion and dust, and play a protective role.
