Estimation of Flow Activation Volume of Synthetic Ester Lubricants

Abstract

A formula was proposed to estimate the atmospheric flow activation volumes of synthetic ester lubricants from their molecular structures based on the assumption of independent movement and contribution of each flow unit of the ester molecule. The estimated activation volumes were in good agreement with those of the experimental. Data, reported by other investigators for high pressure viscosities of several hydrocarbons, were used to test the applicability of the proposed formula. Limitations in its applicability were also discussed.