Electric Vehicle Lubricants Future Market Demand

By Author: Linus Projects India
Total Articles: 2
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The Rise of Electric Vehicles (EVs) has captured significant global attention, particularly as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) emphasises the need for reducing CO2 emissions. In today's world, there is a clear shift towards creating a society that prioritises green, eco-friendly, and sustainable technologies.

The automotive industry is rapidly evolving, with electric vehicles (EVs) poised to become the dominant force on the roads, surpassing traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. This transition reflects a broader commitment to environmental responsibility and innovation. Advancements in EV technology continue to unfold, and the potential for a cleaner, more sustainable future becomes increasingly tangible. The momentum behind electric vehicles signals a transformative era in transportation, one that aligns with global efforts to combat climate change and promote sustainability.

There are two main categories of Electric Vehicles. The first type is the self-charging hybrid, which utilises a traditional combustion engine that runs on petrol or diesel to produce electricity for recharging ...
... the battery.

The second type is the plug-in hybrid, which allows the battery to be charged directly from an electric vehicle charging station. In this case, the combustion engine serves primarily as a backup when the battery's charge is low.

Both types of hybrids offer unique advantages, catering to different driving needs and preferences. While self-charging hybrids rely on the engine for battery maintenance, plug-in hybrids offer the flexibility of external charging, providing an enhanced electric driving range.

Electric Vehicles (EVs) differ significantly from traditional vehicles: Electric motors are powered by a battery that draws energy from charging stations. This electric motor is designed with a simpler structure, featuring considerably fewer moving parts compared to a conventional internal combustion engine.

Why is it necessary for electric vehicles to use lubricants? Electric car motors can reach very high RPMs, often exceeding 10,000 RPM, with some exceeding 20,000 RPM. Ensuring proper lubrication at higher speeds is crucial for protecting seals, bearings, and gears in electric vehicles. At these high speeds, the friction and wear on mechanical components can significantly increase, making it vital to use lubricants specifically designed to withstand such conditions.

Motor & Battery Fluid: Despite their advantages, electric motors generate heat during operation, particularly due to the energy supplied by the battery. This heat must be effectively managed to ensure optimal performance and prevent potential damage. To address this challenge, many electric vehicles are equipped with sophisticated cooling systems that utilise liquid coolant fluids. These systems are essential for maintaining the motor & battery at an ideal operating temperature, which is crucial for both performance and safety. Overheating can lead to accelerated degradation of battery components, reducing its efficiency and capacity over time. By employing effective cooling strategies, manufacturers can ensure that the battery operates within safe temperature limits, thereby optimising its performance and longevity.

The Majority of Electric Vehicles (EVs) utilise glycol-based coolants due to their non-conductive properties, which make them exceptionally compatible with lithium-ion batteries. Coolant plays a crucial role in preventing overheating, ensuring that the vehicle operates within safe temperature limits. Additionally, it provides robust protection against frost, which is essential for maintaining optimal performance in colder climates.

By controlling the thermal environment, these cooling mechanisms help to mitigate the risks associated with overheating, thereby enhancing the overall reliability of the vehicle. This focus on thermal management not only improves the driving experience but also contributes to the sustainability of electric vehicles, making them a more viable option for environmentally conscious consumers.

Lubricant Properties for Electric & Hybrid Electric Vehicles: Electric and hybrid electric vehicles are subjected to electrical currents that flow through the lubricated bearings. This phenomenon occurs on surfaces that are electrically connected to the electric motor, creating a complex interaction between the lubricant and the electrical components. If the lubricants used do not possess adequate electrical properties, they can become susceptible to electric discharge damage. Such damage can compromise the integrity of the bearings and other critical components, leading to premature failure and costly repairs.

Therefore, it is crucial to select lubricants that are not only effective in reducing friction but also capable of withstanding electrical currents without degrading.
To ensure optimal protection of mechanical components in electric vehicles, it is imperative to choose lubricants with the appropriate electrical resistance and dielectric strength. These properties are essential for preventing electrical breakdown and ensuring that the lubricant can effectively insulate against electrical currents.

EV lubricants typically utilise synthetic base oils such as polyalphaolefins (PAOs) or esters, which offer superior performance characteristics essential for electric vehicle applications. PAOs, known for their excellent thermal stability and low-temperature fluidity, provide enhanced lubrication under varying operational conditions, thereby minimising energy losses and improving overall efficiency. In contrast, esters are prized for their biodegradability and high viscosity index, contributing to optimal lubrication in extreme temperatures while also allowing for improved efficiency through reduced frictional losses.

Electrical Compatibility Lubricant: Electrical compatibility of lubricants with electric motor materials is crucial for ensuring the optimal performance and longevity of electrical machinery. Lubricants must be formulated to coexist harmoniously with diverse materials such as metals, copper wires, magnets, plastics, and elastomers commonly found in motor components. This compatibility minimises adverse reactions that could lead to chemical degradation. Furthermore, proper lubricant selection helps maintain electrical insulation properties, thereby preventing breakdowns caused by moisture retention or contamination. Conductive lubricants can lead to short circuits, while non-conductive options are essential in maintaining dielectric strength.

Cooling Efficiency: In Electric Vehicles (EVs), the lubrication systems must play a critical role in effective thermal management, as they directly influence the performance and longevity of the motor. Electric vehicle lubricants are engineered to facilitate efficient heat transfer away from the motor components, thereby maintaining optimal operating temperatures and preventing overheating during prolonged use or under high-load conditions. The formulation of these lubricants typically incorporates advanced additives that enhance thermal conductivity and minimise frictional losses, which not only improves energy efficiency but also protects vital components from wear. Furthermore, as EV motors operate at varying speeds and workloads, the ability of lubricants to retain their effectiveness across a wide range of temperatures is essential for ensuring consistent performance.

Spline Coupling Grease for EV: Spline couplings in electric vehicles (EVs) are subjected to significant loads due to the high torque and increased weight that these vehicles typically possess compared to traditional automobiles. This heightened stress necessitates the use of high-quality grease that can maintain its consistency under demanding conditions. The grease must not only provide adequate lubrication but also offer robust protection against wear and tear, ensuring the longevity and reliability of the spline couplings. Additionally, spline couplings in EVs may encounter exposure to moisture, which can compromise their performance if not adequately addressed. Therefore, it is essential for the grease used in these applications to possess excellent washout resistance, allowing it to retain its lubricating properties even in wet conditions.

Salient Features of EV Lubricants:
• Ensures compatibility with copper coils, resins, and plastics.
• Enhances transmission durability.
• Optimises temperature regulation.
• Shields against short circuits and static electricity.
• Exhibits excellent anti-wear characteristics.
• Provides superior friction, foaming, and air release capabilities.
• Delivers exceptional heat transfer efficiency.
• Supports long-term operational reliability.
• Improves overall system performance.

The market for EV lubricants is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 15–20% over the next decade. There is a growing demand for lubricants specifically designed for electric vehicles (EVs), and forecasts indicate a notable increase ahead. We have commenced training for our clients who have collaborated with us in manufacturing EV motor and battery fluid, Gear Oil, and Spline Coupling Grease. We are proud to share that our clients have successfully developed and launched a new range of EV-specific lubricants under their brand, achieving significant profits. This innovation represents an important step forward in supporting the evolving electric vehicle ecosystem. Our key strength is rooted in our strong technological base, established infrastructure, dedicated teamwork focused on delivering top-notch products, and a relentless drive for excellence.