| Abstract: | A bio-based gear oil was developed from soybean oil (SBO). The SBO was first thermally polymerised and then mixed with additives and diluents. The effect of pour point depressants, co-base oils, antioxidants and anti-wear additives is reported. Lubricity, viscosity index and oxidation stability of the final formulation of the bio-based gear oil are compared with commercially available gear oils. The final formulation of bio-based gear oil gives test results: viscosity index 165, four-ball wear scar 0.375 mm. These numbers are comparable to or better than the commercially available gear oils tested for comparison. The oxidation onset temperature of the bio-based gear oil, 220°C, is lower than the evaluated commercial products, but still at an acceptable range for gear oil. |
