TriboMeca®: reduction of tribological wear and optimization of fuel consumption in heavy-duty truck engines

Heavy-duty diesel engines are exposed to particularly demanding operating conditions: frequent starts, high loads, variable speeds, and periods of inactivity. These conditions promote two major wear phenomena: cold starts and prolonged shutdowns.

Main wear mechanisms

1. Cold start wear During startup, the oil film has not yet been established. Metal surfaces (pistons, cylinder liners, bearings, camshafts) temporarily operate under boundary or mixed lubrication. This phase accounts for a significant portion of the engine's total wear.

2. Wear related to prolonged shutdowns During periods of inactivity, the oil drains back into the crankcase. The surfaces are exposed to oxidation and corrosion. Upon restarting, metal-to-metal contact resumes under unfavorable conditions.

Role of the TriboMeca® tribofilm

TriboMeca® forms a 0.070-micron-thick tribofilm that attaches to metal surfaces. This layer remains in place even in the absence of a hydrodynamic film.

It primarily works by:

• Reducing direct metal-to-metal contact during startup
• Limiting metal tearing
• Protecting against corrosion during shutdowns
• Reducing internal friction

Impact on fuel consumption

Reducing mechanical friction helps lower energy losses. A reduction in internal friction results in improved mechanical efficiency and, under certain operating conditions, a reduction in specific fuel consumption.

Key technical points

• TriboMeca® is used in addition to existing oil
• It is particularly effective during transient operation (starts, low-speed phases)
• It helps protect the critical interfaces of heavy-duty diesel engines
• Limiting wear and reducing friction are two complementary ways to improve longevity and energy efficiency

Conclusion

In heavy-duty engines, controlling wear and reducing friction losses are major technical challenges. The 0.070-micron TriboMeca® tribofilm addresses these issues precisely by protecting metal surfaces when the oil film is not yet fully effective.