The Impact of Different Manufacturer´s Oils on Electric Motor Energy Consumption

Testing was conducted in an effort to determine whether electric motor energy consumption is affected by using different manufacturer´s oils for bearing lubrication as some manufacturer´s may claim. Longevity, lubricity, and other characteristics of lubrication were not tested for. Two test motors were employed: one with split sleeve bearings and oil-ring sump lubrication, the second using anti-friction rolling element bearings with pure mist lubrication. A standard reference oil was used between the two, as well as oils from a variety of leading manufacturers. Both mineral and synthetic based lubrication oils were included in the test for comparison. Bearing vibration, temperature, and motor electrical characteristics were all recorded and used in the analysis