Tribological Evaluation of Electrical Resistance of Lubricated Contacts

Abstract We report a tribo-electrochemical configuration to conduct in situ measurement of electrical conductivity and thickness of lubricating oils against friction. Results showed the non-ohmic behavior of a lubricating film in the hydrodynamic regime. Properties of lubricants and testing conditions are factors affecting the performance. The approach reported here opens windows for future investigation in the fundamentals of lubrication and alternative design of next-generation lubricants.