Tribological Properties of Modified Palm Kernel Oil, RBD Palm Stearin and Palm Fatty Acid Distillate using Pour Point Dispersant

Palm-based oil properties, which consist of long fatty acid chains, have the potential to replace current mineral oils. Recent studies have shown that palm-based oil has comparable lubricating properties to those of commercial engine oil. However, several palm oil products, such as palm kernel oil (PKA), RBD palm stearin (RBD PS) and palm fatty acid distillate (PFAD), exist in solid form, which must be modified to liquid form. In this study, pour point dispersant (PPD) of the alpha-olefin copolymer was used to liquedify palm-based oil. Pour point dispersant was mixed with palm oil at ratios of 1:2, 1:5 and 1:10 via a mechanical stirrer at a speed of 200rpm for 30 minutes. The mixture was kept at a temperature of 20 degrees C in the cold chamber for one day, and the change in physical form was observed. All mixtures that were successfully liquedified proceeded to tribological testing with a four ball tribotester to collect the coefficient of friction (COF) and wear data. Results showed that for every load applied, the palm fatty acid distillate recorded the lowest coefficient of friction, while palm kernel oil recorded the lowest wear scar diameter (WSD).