How does an engine lubrication system work?

Engines, like many other things, need some maintenance to extend their useful life. How much do you know about preventive maintenance of an engine?

You may know a few things, like oil needs to be changed regularly. But do you know why and why you have to do it? We explain what an engine lubrication system is and how it works .

What is the lubrication system
of an engine?

The lubrication system is in charge of distributing the oil to all parts of the engine, thus reducing friction between surfaces, reducing wear and extending the useful life of the engine and its components.

There are many benefits of oil in the engine:

  • Minimize power loss.
  • Less fuel is used and the engine stays cooler.
  • Wear of engine parts is reduced.
  • There is a damping effect against vibrations.
  • Do an internal cleaning.
  • Reduces the costs of repairs and spare parts.
  • It helps the piston rings.

system parts
lubrication

The lubrication system is in charge of distributing the oil to all parts of the engine, thus reducing friction between surfaces, reducing wear and extending the useful life of the engine and its components.

There are many benefits of oil in the engine:

  • Oil tray: it is the part in charge of storing the oil and acts as a means of drainage.
  • Oil pump: continuously supplies the necessary oil to the engine.
  • Pressure Regulator – Releases excess pressure using a spring and check valve.
  • Oil filter: its function is to remove dirt, dust, water, sludge...
  • Collection tube: it is in charge of collecting the oil from the tray, to begin the lubrication process.
  • Oil cooler: is responsible for cooling the oil to reduce oxidation.

system operation
engine lubrication

The lubrication system has a cyclical and continuous operation:

Oil is stored in the crankcase or drain tank, located in the lower part of the engine.

The oil is extracted from the crankcase to the oil pump, passing through a strainer that prevents the passage of larger particles to the rest of the system.

Once it leaves the strainer, it passes through the oil filter, which traps impurities and sends the clean oil to the cooler before being distributed to the different areas of the engine.

The oil circulates continuously while the engine is running. Once it has been distributed, it returns to the lower part of the engine taking advantage of the gravitational force, from where the process begins again.

Obviously, good maintenance of our engine and prevention are key to not having unexpected surprises.

At Comercial Mendez we are experts in the industrial motor sector. If you need advice , contact us.