What is the function of engine oil?
2 Answers
Here are the specific functions of engine oil: 1. Reduce wear: The engine is composed of many precision components. Engine oil forms an oil film on these sliding surfaces, separating the relatively sliding parts and reducing wear. 2. Maintain cleanliness: Good engine oil can carry carbon deposits, sludge, and metal wear particles from engine components back to the oil tank through circulation, flushing away dirt generated on the working surfaces of the parts. 3. Cooling: Engine oil can carry heat back to the oil tank and then dissipate it into the air, helping the radiator cool the engine. 4. Shock absorption: When the pressure in the engine cylinder rises sharply, suddenly increasing the load on the piston, piston pin, connecting rod, and crankshaft bearings, this load is transmitted and lubricated through the bearings, cushioning the impact load. 5. Sealing and leak prevention: Engine oil forms a seal between the piston rings and the piston, reducing gas leakage and preventing external contaminants from entering. 6. Rust and corrosion prevention: Lubricating oil can adhere to the surface of parts, preventing contact with water, air, acidic substances, and harmful gases.
Engine oil is absolutely crucial for an engine, just like the human body can't lack blood. It reduces metal friction between components, coating high-speed moving parts like the crankshaft and pistons with a protective film; it also acts as a cleaner, carrying carbon deposits and metal shavings into the oil filter; at high temperatures, it functions like a radiator to dissipate heat; meanwhile, it ensures a tight seal between piston rings and cylinder walls to maintain cylinder pressure; finally, it prevents rust and corrosion. I always make sure the mechanic changes the oil during every maintenance service—after all, a few extra oil changes are far better than a major engine overhaul.
