Anti-friction additives supposedly work by forming a thin film of lubricant on the contact surfaces of engine parts. This film reduces friction and wear between parts, which can result in a decrease in operating temperature and an improvement in overall engine efficiency. Some of the mechanisms through which they operate are:
- Film Formation: Additives create thin layers on metal surfaces.
- Friction Reduction: By reducing direct contact between surfaces, the resistance to movement caused by contact between engine parts is reduced.
- Wear Properties: Some additives can form compounds that adhere to surfaces.
Most commonly used antifriction components
- Molybdenum (MoS2): This is one of the best-known anti-friction additives. Liquimoly has a molybdenum disulfide-based additive that adheres to metal surfaces and forms a film that reduces friction and wear. It is especially useful in the high pressure and temperature conditions in which an engine operates.
- Graphite: Working on a similar principle to molybdenum, graphite can be used in powder form or as an additive in oils. Its layered structure allows the particles to slide over each other, thus reducing friction.
- Metal Stearates: These compounds, such as zinc stearate, not only act as lubricants but also help prevent metal corrosion and wear, while also contributing to the oil’s thermal stability and longevity.
- Ester-Based Additives: These are synthetic compounds that improve oil fluidity and stability at different temperatures, offering excellent anti-friction protection. An example of this is Prolong Engine Treatment.
- Polymer Additives: Some polymer additives can modify oil viscosity at different temperatures, helping to maintain the lubricating film under high friction and temperature conditions.
- Nano Technology Additives: Recently, nanoparticle-based additives have gained popularity. These nanoparticles can penetrate the pores of metal surfaces and provide additional wear protection. Examples include ceramic additives, such as Liquimoly’s Ceratec or Mannol’s Ceramo.
Benefits of anti-friction additives for the engine
- Reduced Wear: By reducing friction, wear on engine parts is reduced, which can result in a longer engine life and save on future engine maintenance costs.
- Improved Efficiency: An engine that operates with less friction is more efficient, with less resistance to movement, which can translate into better fuel efficiency and lower engine operating noise.
- Lower Operating Temperature: Less friction means less heat, which helps keep the engine at optimal operating temperature and thus contributes to extending its lifespan.
- Additional Protection: Many anti-friction additives also offer antioxidant and anti-corrosion properties, further improving engine protection and engine oil stability.
Conclusion
While engine additives can provide benefits for your engine by extending its life, they aren’t a magic bullet for engine problems such as loss of compression or engine oil leaks due to damaged gaskets or seals. You should also be aware that they serve a complementary function to engine lubricating oil and that engine additives alone cannot replace the oil.