U.S. patent application number 16/754689 was filed with the patent office on 2020-07-23 for lubricating oil composition.
The applicant listed for this patent is ExxonMobil Research and Engineering Company. Invention is credited to Reina Goto.
Application Number | 20200231894 16/754689 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 64604671 |
Filed Date | 2020-07-23 |
United States Patent
Application |
20200231894 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Goto; Reina |
July 23, 2020 |
Lubricating Oil Composition
Abstract
The present disclosure provides a lubricating oil composition
which has a viscosity much lower than that of a conventional
lubricating oil composition, and which is excellent in metal
fatigue life, wear resistance and electrical insulating properties.
The lubricating oil composition according to the present disclosure
comprises: (A) a lubricating base oil; and (B) from 0.6 to 4.0% by
weight, based on the total weight of the lubricating oil
composition, of a polydiene having a number average molecular
weight of from 500 to 3,000 and containing a functional group on at
least one end thereof. The above described lubricating oil
composition does not comprise a viscosity index improver, and has a
kinematic viscosity at 100.degree. C. of not less than 1 and less
than 5 mm.sup.2/s.
Inventors: |
Goto; Reina; (Kanagawa,
JP) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
ExxonMobil Research and Engineering Company |
Annandale |
NJ |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
64604671 |
Appl. No.: |
16/754689 |
Filed: |
October 12, 2017 |
PCT Filed: |
October 12, 2017 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/IB2018/001149 |
371 Date: |
April 8, 2020 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
C10M 2223/047 20130101;
C10M 133/52 20130101; C10M 141/12 20130101; C10N 2060/14 20130101;
C10M 2207/129 20130101; C10M 2223/043 20130101; C10M 139/00
20130101; C10M 2203/1025 20130101; C10N 2020/067 20200501; C10N
2010/04 20130101; C10M 129/90 20130101; C10M 2215/24 20130101; C10M
143/06 20130101; C10M 2205/06 20130101; C10N 2040/042 20200501;
C10M 143/14 20130101; C10M 2209/084 20130101; C10M 2219/024
20130101; C10N 2030/02 20130101; C10M 129/95 20130101; C10M 135/06
20130101; C10M 2215/26 20130101; C10N 2020/02 20130101; C10N
2040/044 20200501; C10N 2030/45 20200501; C10M 2223/045 20130101;
C10N 2030/00 20130101; C10N 2030/70 20200501; C10M 161/00 20130101;
C10N 2030/06 20130101; C10M 2205/08 20130101; C10M 2215/064
20130101; C10M 143/12 20130101; C10N 2040/04 20130101; C10M
2223/049 20130101; C10N 2020/065 20200501; C10N 2020/04 20130101;
C10M 129/93 20130101; C10M 2207/34 20130101; C10M 133/54 20130101;
C10M 2219/042 20130101; C10M 2215/28 20130101; C10M 2203/1025
20130101; C10N 2020/02 20130101 |
International
Class: |
C10M 161/00 20060101
C10M161/00; C10M 143/06 20060101 C10M143/06; C10M 139/00 20060101
C10M139/00; C10M 141/12 20060101 C10M141/12; C10M 135/06 20060101
C10M135/06 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Oct 12, 2017 |
JP |
2017-198410 |
Claims
1. A lubricating oil composition, comprising: (A) a lubricating
base oil; and (B) from 0.6 to 4.0% by weight, based on the total
weight of the lubricating oil composition, of a polydiene having a
number average molecular weight of from 500 to 3,000 and containing
a functional group on at least one end thereof, wherein the
lubricating oil composition does not comprise a viscosity index
improver, and wherein the lubricating oil composition has a
kinematic viscosity at 100.degree. C. of not less than 1 and less
than 5 mm.sup.2/s.
2. The lubricating oil composition according to claim 1, wherein
the functional group in component (B) is selected from a carboxyl
group, ester group, anhydrous carboxyl group, hydroxyl group,
glycidyl group, urethane group and amino group.
3. The lubricating oil composition according to claim 2, wherein
the functional group is a hydroxyl group.
4. The lubricating oil composition according to claim 1, further
comprising (C) at least one selected from a phosphorus-based
anti-wear agent and a phosphorus-based extreme pressure agent.
5. The lubricating oil composition according to claim 4, wherein
the phosphorus-based anti-wear agent is a zinc
dialkyldithiophosphate.
6. The lubricating oil composition according to claim 5, wherein
the phosphorus-based extreme pressure agent is at least one
selected from the group consisting of a phosphoric acid ester, a
phosphorous acid ester, a thiophosphoric acid ester, a
thiophosphorous acid ester, an acidic phosphoric acid ester, an
acidic phosphorous acid ester, a acidic thiophosphoric acid ester
and a acidic thiophosphorous acid ester, and an amine salt
thereof.
7. The lubricating oil composition according to claim 1, further
comprising (D) a sulfur-based extreme pressure agent.
8. The lubricating oil composition according to claim 1, further
comprising (E) an ashless dispersant.
9. The lubricating oil composition according to claim 1, wherein
the lubricating base oil (A) has a kinematic viscosity at
100.degree. C. of from 1 to 4 mm.sup.2/s.
10. The lubricating oil composition according to claim 1, which is
a gear oil for use in an automobile.
11. The lubricating oil composition according to claim 1, which is
a transmission oil for use in an automobile.
12. The lubricating oil composition according to claim 11, which is
a transmission oil for use in a hybrid vehicle.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application is the National Phase entry of
International Patent Application No. PCT/IB2018/001149, filed on
Oct. 12, 2018, which claims priority to Japanese Patent Application
No. 2017-198410, filed on Oct. 12, 2017, the entire contents of
both of which are hereby incorporated by reference into this
application.
FIELD
[0002] The present disclosure relates to a lubricating oil
composition. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a
lubricating oil composition which is excellent in metal fatigue
life, wear resistance and electrical insulating properties, even
when the composition has a reduced viscosity, and which can be used
for a gear or a transmission for use in an automobile.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Lubricating oil compositions for use in automobiles are
needed to have a reduced viscosity, for the purpose of saving fuel.
However, merely reducing the viscosity of conventional lubricating
oil compositions leads to the occurrence of metal fatigue or wear
at the surfaces of gear teeth or in bearings. Although various
investigations have been done in order to reduce the viscosity of
lubricating oil compositions for use in automobiles, a reduction in
the viscosity adversely affect the ability to form an oil film on
the sliding surfaces, causing a deterioration in metal fatigue
life, wear resistance, electrical insulating properties and the
like. Accordingly, there has been a lower limit to which the
viscosity of lubricating oil compositions can be reduced. For
example, Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication (Kokai) No.
2010-059374 (PTL 1) discloses a technique in which a reduction in
the viscosity is achieved by using a hydrogenated saturated
polydiene to which a functional group is introduced. However, the
resulting lubricating oil composition has a kinematic viscosity at
100.degree. C. of about from 5 to 14 mm.sup.2/s, which is not
sufficient to meet the fuel saving performance needed at the
moment. Further, Japanese Translation of PCT International
Application Publication No. JP-T-H11-506391 (PTL 2) and Japanese
Translation of PCT International Application Publication No.
JP-T-H11-506978 (PTL 3) disclose lubricating oil compositions
containing an unsaturated polydiene to which a functional group is
introduced. However, these disclosures are silent about solving the
above described problems associated with achieving fuel saving.
CITATION LIST
Patent Literature
[0004] [PTL 1] Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication (Kokai) No.
2010-059374 [0005] [PTL 2] Japanese Translation of PCT
International Application Publication No. JP-T-H11-506391 [0006]
[PTL 3] Japanese Translation of PCT International Application
Publication No. JP-T-H11-506978
SUMMARY
Technical Problem
[0007] In view of the above mentioned problems, an object of the
present disclosure is to provide a lubricating oil composition
which has a viscosity much lower than that of a conventional
lubricating oil composition, and which is excellent in metal
fatigue life, wear resistance and electrical insulating
properties.
Solution to Problem
[0008] The present inventors have found out that, by incorporating
a specific polydiene and by not incorporating a viscosity index
improver to a lubricating oil composition, it is possible to
provide a lubricating oil composition having a kinematic viscosity
at 100.degree. C. of not less than 1 and less than 5 mm.sup.2/s,
and nevertheless, to maintain excellent metal fatigue life, wear
resistance and electrical insulating properties of the
composition.
[0009] In other words, the present disclosure relates to a
lubricating oil composition, which comprises:
[0010] (A) a lubricating base oil; and
[0011] (B) from 0.6 to 4.0% by weight, based on the total weight of
the lubricating oil composition, of a polydiene having a number
average molecular weight of from 500 to 3,000 and containing a
functional group on at least one end thereof,
[0012] wherein the lubricating oil composition does not comprise a
viscosity index improver, and wherein the lubricating oil
composition has a kinematic viscosity at 100.degree. C. of not less
than 1 and less than 5 mm.sup.2/s.
[0013] The present disclosure provides the lubricating oil
composition satisfying at least one of following (1) to (11).
[0014] (1) The functional group in component (B) is selected from a
carboxyl group, ester group, anhydrous carboxyl group, hydroxyl
group, glycidyl group, and amino group.
[0015] (2) The functional group is a hydroxyl group.
[0016] (3) The lubricating oil composition further comprises (C) at
least one selected from a phosphorus-based anti-wear agent and a
phosphorus-based extreme pressure agent.
[0017] (4) The phosphorus-based anti-wear agent (C) is a zinc
dialkyldithiophosphate.
[0018] (5) The phosphorus-based extreme pressure agent (C) is at
least one selected from the group consisting of a phosphoric acid
ester, a phosphorous acid ester, a thiophosphoric acid ester, a
thiophosphorous acid ester, an acidic phosphoric acid ester, an
acidic phosphorous acid ester, a acidic thiophosphoric acid ester
and a acidic thiophosphorous acid ester, and an amine salt
thereof.
[0019] (6) The lubricating oil composition further comprises (D) a
sulfur-based extreme pressure agent.
[0020] (7) The lubricating oil composition further comprises (E) an
ashless dispersant.
[0021] (8) The lubricating base oil (A) has a kinematic viscosity
at 100.degree. C. of from 1 to 4 mm.sup.2/s.
[0022] (9) The lubricating oil composition is a gear oil for use in
an automobile.
[0023] (10) The lubricating oil composition is a transmission oil
for use in an automobile.
[0024] (11) The lubricating oil composition is a transmission oil
for use in a hybrid vehicle.
Effects of the Present Disclosure
[0025] The present disclosure can provide a lubricating oil
composition which has a viscosity lower than that of a conventional
lubricating oil composition, and which is excellent in metal
fatigue life, wear resistance and electrical insulating properties.
The lubricating oil composition according to the present disclosure
is used as a gear oil for use in an automobile, a transmission oil
for use in an automobile, or a transmission oil for use in a hybrid
vehicle.
DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
[0026] One of the characteristics of the lubricating oil
composition according to the present disclosure is that the
composition does not contain a viscosity index improver.
Conventional lubricating oil compositions generally contain a
viscosity index improver in order to improve viscosity
characteristics. For example, a viscosity index improver such as
polymethacrylate, polyisobutylene or a hydrogenated product
thereof, a styrene-diene hydrogenated copolymer, a styrene-maleic
anhydride ester copolymer, or a polyalkylstyrene has been used.
However, the incorporation of such a viscosity index improver
results in an increase in the kinematic viscosity, and accordingly,
there has been a limit to which the viscosity of a lubricating oil
composition can be reduced. The present disclosure aims to further
reduce the viscosity of a lubricating oil composition by not
incorporating the viscosity index improver to the composition, and
has enabled to provide a lubricating oil composition having a
kinematic viscosity at 100.degree. C. of not less than 1 and less
than 5 mm.sup.2/s.
[0027] The lubricating oil composition according to the present
disclosure has a kinematic viscosity at 100.degree. C. of not less
than 1 mm.sup.2/s and less than 5 mm.sup.2/s. In embodiments, the
lubricating oil composition according to the present disclosure has
a kinematic viscosity at 100.degree. C. of not less than 1.5
mm.sup.2/s and not more than 4.5 mm.sup.2/s, or not less than 1.5
mm.sup.2/s and not more than 4.0 mm.sup.2/s.
(A) Lubricating Base Oil
[0028] The lubricating base oil in the present disclosure may be
any conventionally known lubricating base oil, and may be a mineral
oil, a synthetic oil, or a mixed oil thereof. The kinematic
viscosity of the lubricating base oil is not limited, but the
lubricating base oil can have a kinematic viscosity at 100.degree.
C. of from 1 to 4 mm.sup.2/s.
[0029] A mineral base oil may be, for example: a paraffin- or
naphthene-based lubricating base oil, or the like, which is
obtained by preparing a lubricating oil fraction by distillation of
crude oil under normal pressure and/or reduced pressure, and then
refining the lubricating oil fraction by combining, as appropriate,
any of refining treatments such as solvent deasphalting, solvent
extraction, hydrocracking, solvent dewaxing, catalytic dewaxing,
hydrorefining, sulfuric acid washing, clay treatment, and the like;
or a lubricating base oil obtained by isomerization and dewaxing of
a wax obtained by solvent dewaxing. The kinematic viscosity of the
mineral base oil is not particularly limited. However, in order to
obtain a lubricating oil composition having a low viscosity, the
mineral base oil can have a kinematic viscosity at 100.degree. C.
of from 1 to 4 mm.sup.2/s.
[0030] As a synthetic base oil, it is possible to use a
poly-.alpha.-olefin, an .alpha.-olefin copolymer, an isoparaffin,
an alkylbenzene, an alkylnaphthalene, a monoester, a diester, a
polyol ester, a polyoxyalkylene glycol, a dialkyl diphenyl ether, a
polyphenyl ether, a GTL base oil, or the like. The kinematic
viscosity of the synthetic base oil is not particularly limited.
However, in order to obtain a lubricating oil composition having a
low viscosity, the synthetic base oil can have a kinematic
viscosity of from 1 to 4 mm.sup.2/s.
[0031] One kind of lubricating base oil may be used alone, or two
or more kinds thereof may be used in combination. In the case of
using two or more kinds of lubricating base oils, the lubricating
base oils can be used: in a combination of two or more kinds of
mineral base oils; in a combination of two or more kinds of
synthetic base oils; or in a combination of one or more kinds of
mineral base oils and one or more kinds of synthetic base oils.
[0032] Further, in order to obtain a lubricating oil composition
having a low viscosity, the lubricating base oil, as a whole, has a
kinematic viscosity at 100.degree. C. of from 1 to 4 mm.sup.2/s,
from 1.5 to 3.5 mm.sup.2/s, or even from 2 to 3.3 m.sup.2/s.
(B) Polydiene Containing Functional Group on at Least One End
Thereof
[0033] Component (B) is a polydiene in which at least one end of
the molecular chain is modified by introduction of a functional
group (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as an "end-modified
polydiene"). A polydiene is a polymer or copolymer produced by
polymerization or copolymerization of a diene monomer(s), and a
saturated polydiene is a hydrogenated product in which
carbon-carbon double bonds of the polydiene obtained as described
above are saturated by hydrogenation. The lubricating oil
composition according to the present disclosure is characterized by
comprising the end-modified polydiene. The end-modified polydiene
may be an end-modified unsaturated polydiene or an end-modified
saturated polydiene. From the viewpoint of improving the solubility
in the lubricating base oil, in embodiments, the end-modified
polydiene may be an end-modified saturated polydiene. The polydiene
containing a functional group is adsorbed onto the sliding surface,
and partially increases the viscosity of the composition, and
thereby increases the thickness of the oil film of the lubricating
oil composition. This allows for reducing the metal fatigue or wear
at the surfaces of gear teeth or in the bearings, and for improving
the ability of the composition to protect parts, when using a
lubricating oil composition having a reduced viscosity.
[0034] The end-modified saturated polydiene has a number average
molecular weight of from 500 to 3,000. The end-modified saturated
polydiene may have a number average molecular weight of from 600 to
2,500, or from 800 to 2,000. Having a number average molecular
weight of less than the above described lower limit value causes a
decrease in the resistance to metal fatigue; whereas having a
number average molecular weight exceeding the upper limit value
leads to an increased thickening effect, thereby hindering fuel
saving performance; both of which are problematic. The value of the
number average molecular weight is a value obtained by gel
permeation chromatography (GPC), using polystyrene as a standard
material.
[0035] Examples of the diene monomer include hydrocarbons
containing from 4 to 10 carbon atoms and containing at least two
unsaturated bonds. Specific examples thereof include: conjugated
dienes such as 1,3-butadiene, isoprene, 2,3-dimethyl-1,3-butadiene,
1,3-pentadiene, 2-methyl-1,3-pentadiene, 1,3-hexadiene,
4,5-dimethyl-1,3-octadiene, 3-butyl-1,3-octadiene and chloroprene;
and non-conjugated dienes such as 1,4-pentadiene, 1,5-hexadiene and
1,7-octadiene. From the viewpoint of providing an end-modified
polydiene which is effective for extending the metal fatigue life,
in embodiments, the diene monomer is a conjugated diene. In
embodiments, the diene monomer is 1,3-butadiene or isoprene.
[0036] The polydiene obtained by polymerization of such a diene
monomer may have, in the case of polybutadiene, for example, a
structure which can be obtained by 1,2-addition or by 1,4-addition.
Further, the polydiene may have a structure resulting from both
types of additions.
[0037] The saturated polydiene in the present disclosure may be not
only a polymer of the above diene monomer, but also a copolymer of
the diene monomer and another monomer(s). The other monomer
copolymerizable with such a diene monomer is, for example, a vinyl
aromatic hydrocarbon, and examples thereof include styrene,
.alpha.-methylstyrene, p-methylstyrene, divinylbenzene and
t-butylstyrene.
[0038] As described above, component (B) is a polydiene in which at
least one end of the molecular chain is modified by introduction of
a functional group. Component (B) may be a polydiene in which a
functional group is introduced to only one end of the molecular
chain, or a polydiene in which functional groups are introduced to
both ends of the molecular chain. Further, in the case of a
polydiene having a branched molecular chain, a functional group(s)
may be introduced to the end(s) of the branch(es) of the polydiene.
From the viewpoint of enhancing the effect of extending and
maintaining the metal fatigue life, in embodiments, the functional
groups can be introduced to at least both ends of the molecular
chain.
[0039] The functional group in the present disclosure may be, for
example, a functional group containing at least one heteroatom
selected from the group consisting of oxygen, sulfur, nitrogen and
phosphorus. Examples of functional groups include a carboxyl group,
ester group, anhydrous carboxyl group, hydroxyl group, glycidyl
group, urethane group and amino group. In embodiments, the
functional groups can include a carboxyl group, hydroxyl group,
glycidyl group and amino group. In embodiments, the functional
group is hydroxyl group, from the viewpoint of improving the metal
fatigue life.
[0040] The average number of functional groups per one polydiene
molecule is from 1 to 10, or 1.5 or more. When the average number
of functional groups is less than 1, the resulting lubricant oil
composition has a markedly short metal fatigue life due to
insufficient oil film formation; whereas when the average number of
functional groups is more than 10, there is a risk of causing a
decrease in solubility.
[0041] As described above, a saturated polydiene is one in which
carbon-carbon double bonds in its main chain are hydrogenated. The
degree of hydrogenation can be determined by the level of iodine
number or bromine number. The iodine number may be 100 or less, or
the bromine number may be 63 or less, and at least one of the above
needs to be satisfied. In particular, in embodiments, the iodine
number is 80 or less, or 20 or less. Having a low degree of
hydrogenation is disadvantageous, because it results in a poor
solubility in a base oil having a low polarity. It is to be noted
that the hydrogenation is carried out selectively at double bonds
present in the main chain of the polydiene, and the hydrogenation
of functional groups is avoided. The iodine number and the bromine
number can be measured in accordance with ASTM D 1959 and JIS K
2605, respectively.
[0042] More specifically, the end-modified saturated polydiene may
be, for example, a compound represented by following Formula
(1):
##STR00001##
[0043] In Formula (1), X represents a monovalent functional group;
Y represents a hydrogen atom or a monovalent functional group. When
Y is a hydrogen atom, the resulting polydiene is one in which a
functional group is introduced to one end thereof; whereas when Y
is a monovalent functional group, the resulting polydiene is one in
which functional groups are introduced to both ends thereof. The
monovalent functional group is as described above, and examples
thereof include a carboxyl group, hydroxyl group, anhydrous
carboxyl group, ester group, amino group, and glycidyl group. Each
R.sup.1 represents a monovalent hydrocarbon group containing from 1
to 6 carbon atoms. In embodiments, each R.sup.1 is a linear or
branched aliphatic hydrocarbon group. In embodiments, each R' is an
alkyl group. m represents an integer of 0, or from 1 to 100, or an
integer of from 10 to 60; and n represents an integer of 0 or from
1 to 100, or an integer of from 10 to 60. The above end-modified
saturated polydiene can be selected and obtained as appropriate,
from compatible products available on the market.
[0044] The amount of component (B) to be incorporated in the
lubricating oil composition according to the present disclosure is
from 0.6 to 4.0% by weight, from 0.8 to 3.8% by weight, or from 1.0
to 3.6% by weight, based on the total weight of the lubricating oil
composition. An amount of component (B) of less than the above
lower limit value results in an insufficient effect of improving
the metal fatigue life. An amount of component (B) exceeding the
above upper limit value may rarely lead to an increase in the
effect of improving the metal fatigue life, but may rather result
in an increase in the viscosity, possibly causing adverse
effects.
(C) Phosphorus-Based Anti-Wear Agent or Phosphorus-Based Extreme
Pressure Agent
[0045] The lubricating oil composition according to the present
disclosure contains at least one selected from a phosphorus-based
anti-wear agent and a phosphorus-based extreme pressure agent
(hereinafter, sometimes referred to as a "phosphorus-based
additive"). The amount of component (C) is such that the total
content of phosphorus atoms based on the total weight of the
lubricating oil composition is from 50 to 500 ppm by weight, from
80 to 450 ppm by weight, from 100 to 400 ppm by weight, or from 120
to 400 ppm by weight. By adjusting the amount of the
phosphorus-based additive within the above range, it becomes
possible to more securely maintain an excellent metal fatigue life,
wear resistance and electrical insulating properties of the
resulting lubricating oil composition, even when the composition
has a reduced viscosity.
[0046] The phosphorus-based anti-wear agent is not particularly
limited, and may be any conventionally known compound which is
known as an anti-wear agent for use in a lubricating oil
composition. The phosphorus-based anti-wear agent may be, for
example, a zinc dialkyldithiophosphate (ZnDTP (also referred to as
ZDDP)). ZnDTP is represented by following Formula (2):
##STR00002##
[0047] In above Formula (2), R.sup.2 and R.sup.3 each independently
represents a hydrogen atom or a monovalent hydrocarbon group
containing from 1 to 26 carbon atoms. The monovalent hydrocarbon
group is: a primary or secondary alkyl group containing from 1 to
26 carbon atoms; an alkenyl group containing from 2 to 26 carbon
atoms; a cycloalkyl group containing from 6 to 26 carbon atoms; an
aryl group, alkylaryl group or arylalkyl group containing from 6 to
26 carbon atoms; or a hydrocarbon group containing an ester bond,
ether bond, alcohol group or carboxyl group. In embodiments,
R.sup.2 and R.sup.3 each independently represent a primary or
secondary alkyl group containing from 2 to 12 carbon atoms, a
cycloalkyl group containing from 8 to 18 carbon atoms, or an
alkylaryl group containing from 8 to 18 carbon atoms. In
embodiments, the phosphorus-based anti-wear agent is a zinc
dialkyldithiophosphate. The primary alkyl group contains from 3 to
12 carbon atoms, or from 4 to 10 carbon atoms. The secondary alkyl
group contains from 3 to 12 carbon atoms, or from 3 to 10 carbon
atoms. Further, zinc dithiocarbamate (ZnDTC) may be used in
combination. A zinc dialkyldithiophosphate containing a primary
alkyl group (Pri-ZnDTP) and a zinc dialkyldithiophosphate
containing a secondary alkyl group (Sec-ZnDTP) may be used singly,
or in combination of two or more kinds thereof. In the case of
using two or more kinds in combination, the mixing ratio thereof is
not particularly limited.
[0048] In the lubricating oil composition according to the present
disclosure, the phosphorus-based anti-wear agent, particularly, a
zinc dialkyldithiophosphate, may be contained in such an amount
that the total amount of phosphorus atoms based on the total weight
of the lubricating oil composition satisfies the above range.
Specifically, the phosphorus-based anti-wear agent is contained in
such an amount that the amount of phosphorus derived from the
phosphorus-based anti-wear agent is from 50 to 500 ppm by weight,
from 80 to 450 ppm by weight, from 100 to 400 ppm by weight, or
from 120 to 400 ppm by weight, based on the total weight of the
lubricating oil composition. By incorporating the phosphorus-based
anti-wear agent in such an amount that the amount of phosphorus in
the composition is within the above range, it is possible to
prevent a decrease in the metal fatigue life, and to secure the
wear resistance and the electrical insulating properties, of the
resulting lubricating oil composition.
[0049] The phosphorus-based extreme pressure agent is not
particularly limited, and may be any conventionally known compound
which is known as an extreme pressure agent for use in a
lubricating oil composition. The phosphorus-based extreme pressure
agent is at least one selected from the group consisting of:
phosphoric acid, phosphorous acid, phosphonic acid, a phosphoric
acid ester, a phosphorous acid ester, a thiophosphoric acid ester,
a thiophosphorous acid ester, an acidic phosphoric acid ester, an
acidic phosphorous acid ester, a phosphonic acid ester, an acidic
thiophosphoric acid ester and an acidic thiophosphorous acid ester,
and an amine salt thereof. The phosphorus-based extreme pressure
agent may contain sulfur. A phosphorus-sulfur-based extreme
pressure agent, such as a thiophosphoric acid ester, is encompassed
in the definition of the phosphorus-based extreme pressure agent,
but not in the definition of the sulfur-based extreme pressure
agent to be described later. It is to be noted, however, that zinc
dithiophosphate is not encompassed in the definition of the
phosphorus-based extreme pressure agent in the present disclosure.
In embodiments, the phosphorus-based extreme pressure agent in the
present disclosure does not contain a metal element.
[0050] The phosphoric acid ester and the acidic phosphoric acid
ester are represented by the formula:
(R.sup.4O).sub.aP(.dbd.O)(OH).sub.3-a. In the formula, a represents
0, 1, 2 or 3; and each R.sup.4 independently represents a
monovalent hydrocarbon group containing from 4 to 30 carbon atoms.
When a is 1 or 2, the compound represented by the formula:
(R.sup.4O).sub.aP(.dbd.O)(OH).sub.3-a is an acidic phosphoric acid
ester.
[0051] The phosphorous acid ester and the acidic phosphorous acid
ester are represented by the formula:
(R.sup.4O).sub.bP(.dbd.O)(OH).sub.2-bH. In the formula, b
represents 0, 1, or 2; and each R.sup.4 independently represents a
monovalent hydrocarbon group containing from 4 to 30 carbon
atoms.
[0052] In embodiments, the phosphoric acid ester and the acidic
phosphoric acid ester are a monoalkyl phosphate, a dialkyl
phosphate, or a trialkyl phosphate, but not limited thereto.
[0053] In embodiments, the phosphoric acid ester and the acidic
phosphorous acid ester are a monoalkyl phosphite or a dialkyl
phosphite, but not limited thereto.
[0054] Further, the definition of phosphorus-based extreme pressure
agent also encompasses a compound obtained by replacing some of
oxygen atoms in the above phosphoric acid, phosphorous acid,
phosphonic acid, phosphoric acid ester, phosphorous acid ester,
phosphonic acid ester, acidic phosphoric acid ester or acidic
phosphorous acid ester, with a sulfur atom(s), such as, for
example, a thiophosphoric acid ester, a thiophosphorous acid ester,
an acidic thiophosphoric acid ester, or an acidic thiophosphorous
acid ester.
[0055] More specific examples of the phosphorus-based extreme
pressure agent include monooctyl phosphate, dioctyl phosphate,
trioctyl phosphate, monooctyl phosphite, dioctyl phosphite,
monooctyl thiophosphate, dioctyl thiophosphate, trioctyl
thiophosphate, monooctyl thiophosphite, dioctyl thiophosphite,
monododecyl phosphate, didodecyl phosphate, tridodecyl phosphate,
monododecyl phosphite, didodecyl phosphite, acidic butyl phosphate,
acidic hexyl phosphate, acidic octyl phosphate, acidic dodecyl
phosphate, acidic butyl phosphite, acidic hexyl phosphite, acidic
octyl phosphite and acidic dodecyl phosphite, but not limited
thereto.
[0056] Further, it is also possible to use alkyl amine salts and
alkenyl amine salts of the compounds which are partially
esterified, among the above compounds. In other words, amine salts
of acidic phosphoric acid esters and amine salts of acidic
phosphorous acid esters can be used, but not limited thereto.
[0057] More specific examples thereof include amine salts of
monooctyl phosphate, amine salts of dioctyl phosphate, amine salts
of trioctyl phosphate, amine salts of dioctyl phosphite, amine
salts of trioctyl phosphite, amine salts of dioctyl thiophosphate,
amine salts of trioctyl thiophosphate, amine salts of tridodecyl
thiophosphate, amine salts of didecyl phosphate, amine salts of
didecyl phosphite, amine salts of didodecyl phosphate, amine salts
of tridodecyl phosphate, amine salts of didodecyl phosphite, amine
salts of tridodecyl phosphite, amine salts of tridodecyl
thiophosphate, amine salts of trihexadodecyl phosphate, amine salts
of trihexadodecyl phosphite, amine salts of acidic butyl phosphite,
amine salts of acidic hexyl phosphate, amine salts of acidic octyl
phosphate, amine salts of acidic dodecyl phosphate, amine salts of
acidic butyl phosphite, amine salts of acidic hexyl phosphite,
amine salts of acidic octyl phosphite and amine salts of acidic
dodecyl phosphite.
[0058] As described above, the phosphorus-based extreme pressure
agent is contained in such an amount that the total content of
phosphorus atoms based on the total weight of the lubricating oil
composition satisfies the above range. Specifically, the
phosphorus-based extreme pressure agent is contained in such an
amount that the amount of phosphorus atoms derived from the
phosphorus-based extreme pressure agent is from 50 to 500 ppm by
weight, from 80 to 450 ppm by weight, from 100 to 400 ppm by
weight, or from 120 to 400 ppm by weight, based on the total weight
of the lubricating oil composition.
(D) Sulfur-Based Extreme Pressure Agent
[0059] The lubricating oil composition according to the present
disclosure may optionally further contain a sulfur-based extreme
pressure agent. The sulfur-based extreme pressure agent may be any
known compound. In embodiments, the sulfur-based extreme pressure
agent is at least one selected from sulfide compounds represented
by sulfurized olefins, and sulfurized esters represented by
sulfurized fats and oils. In embodiments, the sulfur-based extreme
pressure agent is a sulfurized olefin.
[0060] The sulfur-based extreme pressure agent is represented, for
example, by following General Formula (3):
##STR00003##
[0061] In Formula (3), R.sup.5 and R.sup.6 each independently
represents a monovalent substituent group containing at least one
element selected from carbon, hydrogen, oxygen and sulfur atoms.
The monovalent substituent group may be, for example, a linear or
branched, saturated or unsaturated hydrocarbon group containing
from 1 to 40 carbon atoms. The hydrocarbon group may be an
aliphatic, aromatic, or araliphatic hydrocarbon group, and may
contain an oxygen atom and/or a sulfur atom. Further, R.sup.5 and
R.sup.6 may be bound to each other. When a compound represented by
Formula (3) contains only one bond, the compound is represented,
for example, by following General Formula (4):
##STR00004##
[0062] In each of above Formulae (3) and (4), x represents an
integer of 1 or more, or an integer of from 1 to 12. A smaller
value of x tends to result in a decrease in extreme pressure
properties; whereas too large a value of x tends to result in a
decrease in thermal oxidative stability.
[0063] Sulfurized olefins are obtained by sulfurization of olefins.
Compounds including sulfurized olefins, and those obtained by
sulfurization of hydrocarbon-based raw materials other than
olefins, are collectively referred to as sulfide compounds.
Examples of the sulfurized olefin include those obtained by
sulfurizing olefins, such as polyisobutylenes and terpenes, with
sulfur or other sulfurizing agents.
[0064] Examples of the sulfide compound other than the sulfurized
olefin include diisobutyl disulfide, dioctyl polysulfide,
di-tert-butyl polysulfide, diisobutyl polysulfide, dihexyl
polysulfide, di-tert-nonyl polysulfide, didecyl polysulfide,
didodecyl polysulfide, diisobutylene polysulfide, dioctenyl
polysulfide, and dibenzyl polysulfide.
[0065] Sulfurized fats and oils are reaction products of fats and
oils with sulfur, and obtained by a sulfurization reaction of fats
and oils, using animal and vegetable fats and oils such as lard,
beef tallow, whale oil, palm oil, coconut oil and rapeseed oil.
Such a reaction product does not consist of a single kind of
substance, but is a mixture of various types of substances, and the
chemical structure itself of the reaction product is not entirely
clear.
[0066] Examples of the sulfurized ester include, in addition to the
sulfurized fats and oils described above, those obtained by:
allowing various types of organic acids (such as saturated fatty
acids, unsaturated fatty acids, dicarboxylic acids and aromatic
carboxylic acids) to react with various types of alcohols to obtain
ester compounds; and then sulfurizing the ester compounds with
sulfur or other sulfurizing agents. As with the case of sulfurized
fats and oils, the chemical structure itself of such a compound is
not entirely clear.
[0067] The amount of the sulfur-based extreme pressure agent
according to the present disclosure is not limited. However, the
sulfur-based extreme pressure agent can be contained in the
lubricating oil composition in an amount of from 0.01 to 5% by
weight, from 0.1 to 3% by weight, or from 0.2 to 2% by weight.
(E) Ashless Dispersant
[0068] The lubricant composition according to the present
disclosure can further comprises an ashless dispersant. The ashless
dispersant is not particularly limited, and any conventionally
known compound may be used. The ashless dispersant may be, for
example: a nitrogen-containing compound which contains, within the
molecule, at least one linear or branched alkyl group or alkenyl
group containing from 40 to 400 carbon atoms, or a derivative
thereof; or succinimide or a modified product thereof. One kind of
ashless dispersant may be used alone, or two or more kinds thereof
may be used in combination. Further, it is also possible to use a
boronated ashless dispersant. The boronated ashless dispersant is
one obtained by boronating an arbitrary ashless dispersant used in
a lubricating oil. Boronation is usually carried out by allowing an
imide compound to react with boric acid, to neutralize some or all
of the remaining amino groups and/or imino groups.
[0069] The above alkyl group or alkenyl group contains from 40 to
400 carbon atoms, or from 60 to 350 carbon atoms. When the number
of carbon atoms contained in the alkyl group or the alkenyl group
is less than the above lower limit value, the solubility of the
nitrogen-containing compound in the lubricating base oil tends to
decrease. When the number of carbon atoms contained in the alkyl
group or the alkenyl group exceeds the above upper limit value, the
low temperature fluidity of the resulting lubricating oil
composition tends to deteriorate. The alkyl group or the alkenyl
group may have a linear structure or a branched structure. In
embodiments, the alkyl group or the alkenyl group is a branched
alkyl group or a branched alkenyl group derived from an oligomer of
an olefin such as propylene, 1-butene or isobutene, or from a
co-oligomer of ethylene and propylene.
[0070] The succinimide is classified into two types: a so-called
mono-type succinimide, which is a reaction product obtained by
adding succinic anhydride to one end of a polyamine; and a
so-called bis-type succinimide which is a reaction product obtained
by adding succinic anhydride to both ends of a polyamine. The
lubricating oil composition according to the present disclosure may
comprise at least one of the mono-type and bis-type succinimides,
or may contain both types of succinimides. The mono-type
succinimide compound can be represented, for example, by following
Formula (5). The bis-type succinimide compound can be represented,
for example, by following Formula (6).
##STR00005##
[0071] In the above formulae, each R.sup.7 independently represents
an alkyl group or an alkenyl group containing from 40 to 400 carbon
atoms; m.sup.1 represents an integer of from 1 to 20; and n.sup.1
represents an integer of from 0 to 20. In embodiments, the
succinimide compound is a bis-type succinimide compound. As the
succinimide compound, mono-type and bis-type compounds may be used
in combination; or alternatively, two or more kinds of mono-type
compounds, or two or more kinds of bis-type compounds may be used
in combination.
[0072] The modified product of succinimide refers, for example, to
one obtained by modifying succinimide with a boron compound
(hereinafter, sometimes referred to as a "boronated succinimide").
The expression "to modify with a boron compound" as used herein
means "to boronate". One kind of boronated succinimide may be used
alone, or two or more kinds thereof may be used in combination. In
the case of combined use, two or more kinds of boronated
succinimides may be used in combination. Further, the lubricating
oil composition according to the present disclosure may comprise
both the mono-type and bis-type succinimides, or may comprise a
combination of two or more kinds of mono-type succinimides, or a
combination of two or more kinds of bis-type succinimides.
Boronated and non-boronated succinimides may also be used in
combination.
[0073] The boronated succinimide can be produced, for example, by
any of methods disclosed in Japanese Examined Patent Publication
(Kokoku) No. S42-8013 and Japanese Examined Patent Publication
(Kokoku) No. S42-8014, Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication
(Kokai) No. S51-52381, and Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication
(Kokai) No. S51-130408. Specifically, the boronated succinimide can
be obtained, for example, by mixing a polyamine and succinic
anhydride (derivative) with a boron compound such as boric acid, a
boric acid ester or a boric acid salt, in an alcohol, an organic
solvent such as hexane or xylene, a light lubricating base oil or
the like, followed by a heat treatment under an appropriate
conditions. The boron content in the thus obtained boronated
succinimide can usually be adjusted to from 0.1 to 4% by weight. In
the present disclosure, the succinimide compound may be a
boron-modified compound of an alkenyl succinimide compound
(boronated succinimide), because of its excellent heat resistance,
anti-oxidative properties and anti-wear properties.
[0074] The boron content in the boronated ashless dispersant is not
particularly limited. The boron content is usually from 0.1 to 3%
by weight based on the weight of the ashless dispersant. In one
embodiment of the present disclosure, the boron content in the
ashless dispersant is 0.2% by weight or more, 0.4% by weight or
more; and at the same time, 2.5% by weight or less, 2.3% by weight
or less, or 2.0% by weight or less. In embodiments, the boronated
ashless dispersant is a boronated succinimide. In embodiments, the
boronated ashless dispersant is a boronated bis-succinimide.
[0075] The boronated ashless dispersant has a boron/nitrogen weight
ratio (B/N ratio) of 0.1 or more, or 0.2 or more; and at the same
time, less than 1.0, or 0.8 or less.
[0076] The content of the ashless dispersant may be adjusted as
appropriate. For example, the content of the ashless dispersant can
be from 0.01 to 20% by weight, or from 0.1 to 10% by weight, based
on the total weight of the lubricating oil composition. A content
of the ashless dispersant of less than the above lower limit value
may result in insufficient sludge dispersibility. A content of the
ashless dispersant exceeding the above upper limit value may cause
a degradation of a specific rubber material, or a deterioration in
the low temperature fluidity.
[0077] To the lubricating oil composition according to the present
disclosure, any of other additives other than above components (A)
to (E) can be added as appropriate, to the extent that the effect
of the present disclosure is not impaired; however, a viscosity
index improver (such as polymethacrylate, polyisobutylene or a
hydrogenated product thereof, a styrene-diene hydrogenated
copolymer, a styrene-maleic anhydride ester copolymer, or a
polyalkylstyrene) is not added to the lubricating oil composition.
Examples of the other additives include metal detergents, friction
modifiers, oil agents, rust inhibitors, antioxidants, corrosion
inhibitors, metal inactivating agents, pour point depressants,
antifoaming agents, colorants, and additive packages for automatic
transmission oils. It is also possible to add any of various types
of lubricating oil additive packages containing at least one of the
above additives.
[0078] The lubricating oil composition in the present disclosure
can be used, in particular, as a lubricating oil composition for
use in an automobile to provide low viscosity, and can be used as a
gear oil for use in an automobile or a transmission oil for use in
an automobile. Further, the lubricating oil composition according
to the present disclosure can provide a good friction-reducing
effect. Accordingly, the lubricating oil composition can be used
not only as a lubricating oil for an automatic transmission, but
also as a transmission oil having high friction-reducing
properties, such as a transmission oil for use in a hybrid vehicle
which does not include a clutch. The lubricating oil composition
according to the present disclosure can be used in accordance with
a conventionally known method.
EXAMPLES
[0079] The present disclosure will now be described in detail, with
reference to Examples and Comparative Examples. However, the
present disclosure is in no way limited by the following
Examples.
[0080] The base oil and additives to be used in the Examples are as
described below.
(A) Lubricating Base Oil
[0081] A mineral oil (highly refined base oil, kinematic viscosity
at 100.degree. C.: 3 mm.sup.2/s, viscosity index: 122; Group III
base oil)
(B) Polydiene Compound
[0082] (B1) Saturated polybutene containing hydroxyl groups at both
ends (number average molecular weight (Mn): 1,000)
[0083] (B2) Saturated polybutene containing hydroxyl groups at both
ends (number average molecular weight (Mn): 3,000)
[0084] (B3) Saturated polybutene containing carboxyl groups at both
ends (number average molecular weight (Mn): 1,000)
[0085] (B4) Unsaturated polybutene containing hydroxyl groups at
both ends (number average molecular weight (Mn): 1,000)
[0086] (B5) Saturated polybutene with unmodified ends (number
average molecular weight (Mn): 3,000) (for comparison)
[0087] (B6) Saturated polybutene containing urethane groups at both
ends (number average molecular weight (Mn): 1,000)
(C) Phosphorus-Based Additive
[0088] A zinc dialkyldithiophosphate (anti-wear agent, secondary
alkyl, 2-ethylhexyl group)
(D) Sulfur-Based Extreme Pressure Agent
[0089] A sulfurized ester (sulfur content: 10% by weight)
(E) Ashless Dispersant
[0090] Polybutenyl succinic bisimide (molecular weight of
polybutenyl group: 3,000, nitrogen content: 1.0% by weight, boron
content: 0.5% by weight)
(F) Other Additives
[0091] An antioxidant (diphenylamine), a metal inactivating agent,
and an antifoaming agent
(G) Viscosity Index Improver (for Comparison)
[0092] Polymethacrylate (weight average molecular weight: 50,000,
amount of polymer: 50% by weight)
Examples 1 to 5 and Comparative Examples 1 to 4
[0093] The respective components described above are mixed at the
compositions and amounts shown in Table 1, to obtain respective
lubricating oil compositions of Examples and Comparative
Examples.
[0094] The amounts of respective components shown in Tables will be
described below.
[0095] The amount of the phosphorus-based extreme pressure agent is
the amount of phosphorus based on the total amount of the
lubricating oil composition, given in ppm by weight. The amounts of
each polybutene, the sulfur-based extreme pressure agent, the
dispersant, the viscosity index improver, and the other additives
are each the amount thereof based on the total amount of the
lubricating oil composition, given in % by weight. The amount of
the base oil is the balance of the total amount of the lubricating
oil composition, which is taken as 100.
[0096] The properties of each of the lubricating oil compositions
were evaluated as describe below.
(1) Kinematic viscosity (100.degree. C.) was measured in accordance
with ATSM D445. (2) Metal fatigue properties
[0097] Metal fatigue properties were measured by a unit test using
a thrust needle bearing having an inner diameter of 19.2 mm, an
outer diameter of 28.5 mm, and a needle diameter of 2 mm. The
measurement was carried out at an additional thrust load of 10.5 N,
a number of revolution of 3,000 rpm, and an oil temperature of
120.degree. C., and the number of cycles until the occurrence of
metal fatigue was counted.
(3) Wear resistance was measured in accordance with ASTM D4172-2.
(4) Electrical insulating properties (volume resistivity) were
measured in accordance with JIS C2101. (5) Solubility of a
polydiene compound in a lubricating base oil
[0098] The solubility was evaluated as ".smallcircle." when the
resulting solution was transparent; the solubility was evaluated as
".DELTA.", when the resulting solution was not transparent, but it
was possible to carry out the measurements of physical properties
without problems; and the solubility was evaluated as "x", when the
resulting solution was clouded, and it was unable to carry out the
measurements of physical properties.
[0099] It is to be noted that when the polydiene compound has a
poor solubility, the measurements of other physical property values
were not carried out. Further, when the lubricating oil composition
has a kinematic viscosity at 100.degree. C. of more than 5
mm.sup.2/s, the measurements of other physical property values were
not carried out, as well.
TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 Exam- Exam- Exam- Exam- Exam- ple 1 ple 2
ple 3 ple 4 ple 5 Compo- (B) Polybutene (B1) Saturated polybutene 3
sition containing OH groups at both ends, Mn: 1,000 (B2) Saturated
polybutene 3 containing OH groups at both ends, Mn: 3,000 (B3)
Saturated polybutene 3 containing COOH groups at both ends, Mn:
1,000 (B4) Unsaturated 3 polybutene containing OH groups at both
ends, Mn: 1,000 (B5) Saturated polybutene with unmodified ends, Mn:
3,000 (B6) Polybutene containing 3 urethane groups at both ends,
Mn: 1,000 (C) Phosphorus- A zinc 300 300 300 300 300 based extreme
dialkyldithiophosphate, pressure agent amount of phosphorus based
on the total amount of the composition (ppm) (G) Viscosity index
improver (polymethacrylate) 0 0 0 0 0 (A) Lubricating base oil
Balance Balance Balance Balance Balance (D) Sulfur-based extreme
pressure agent 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 (a sulfurized ester) (E) Ashless
dispersant 4 4 4 4 4 (F) Other additives 0.23 0.23 0.23 0.23 0.23
Evalu- Solubility .smallcircle. .smallcircle. .smallcircle.
.smallcircle. .DELTA. ation Kinematic viscosity at 100.degree. C.
(mm.sup.2/s) 4.2 4.2 4.2 4.2 4.2 Metal fatigue properties
(megacycle) 59.8 50.2 61.9 74.2 63.4 Wear resistance (mm) 0.43 0.43
0.43 0.41 0.42 Electrical insulating properties (10.sup.9 .OMEGA.
cm) 6.2 6.1 6.2 6.3 6.2
TABLE-US-00002 TABLE 2 Comparative Comparative Comparative
Comparative Example 1 Example 2 Example 3 Example 4 Compo- (B)
Polybutene (B1) Saturated polybutene 0.5 5 3 sition containing OH
groups at both ends, Mn: 1,000 (B2) Saturated polybutene containing
OH groups at both ends, Mn: 3,000 (B3) Saturated polybutene
containing COOH groups at both ends, Mn: 1,000 (B4) Unsaturated
polybutene containing OH groups at both ends, Mn: 1,000 (B5)
Saturated polybutene 3 with unmodified ends, Mn: 3,000 (B6)
Polybutene containing urethane groups at both ends, Mn: 1,000 (C)
Phosphorus- A zinc 300 300 300 300 based extreme
dialkyldithiophosphate, pressure agent amount of phosphorus based
on the total amount of the composition (ppm) (G) Viscosity index
improver (polymethacrylate) 0 0 0 5 (A) Lubricating base oil
Balance Balance Balance Balance (D) Sulfur-based extreme pressure
agent 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 (a sulfurized ester) (E) Ashless dispersant 4
4 4 4 (F) Other additives 0.23 0.23 0.23 0.23 Evalu- Solubility
.smallcircle. x .smallcircle. .smallcircle. ation Kinematic
viscosity at 100.degree. C. (mm.sup.2/s) 3.9 4.2 5.2 Metal fatigue
properties (megacycle) 48.2 -- 47.0 -- Wear resistance (mm) 0.46 --
0.70 Electrical insulating properties (10.sup.9 .OMEGA. cm) 6.2 --
6.1
[0100] As shown in Table 1, each of the lubricating oil
compositions of Examples 1 to 5 has a kinematic viscosity at
100.degree. C. of not less than 1 and less than 5 mm.sup.2/s, metal
fatigue properties of 50 megacycles or more, a wear resistance of
0.5 mm or less, and electrical insulating properties (volume
resistivity) of 6.0.times.10.sup.9 .OMEGA.cm or more. In other
words, each of the lubricating oil compositions according to the
present disclosure are capable of exhibiting excellent metal
fatigue properties and wear resistance, as well as good electrical
insulating properties (volume resistivity), at a kinematic
viscosity at 100.degree. C. of less than 5 mm.sup.2/s. Further,
each end-modified polydiene compound used exhibited a good
solubility in the lubricating base oil.
[0101] In contrast, as can be seen from the results of Comparative
Example 1, an insufficient amount of the specific polydiene
compound added results in poor metal fatigue properties. As can be
seen from the results of Comparative Example 3, the use of the
polydiene compound with unmodified ends results in poor metal
fatigue properties and wear resistance. These results reveal that
each of the lubricating oil compositions of Comparative Examples 1
and 3 is poor in any of metal fatigue properties, wear resistance
and electrical insulating properties. Further, the lubricating oil
composition of Comparative Example 2 has a problem in solubility.
Still further, as can be seen from the results of Comparative
Example 4, the lubricating oil composition containing the viscosity
index improver has a kinematic viscosity at 100.degree. C. of more
than 5 mm.sup.2/s. Since a reduction in viscosity intended in the
present disclosure was not achieved in the lubricating oil
composition of Comparative Example 4, the measurements of other
respective physical property values were not carried out.
INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY
[0102] The lubricating oil composition according to the present
disclosure satisfies all of the metal fatigue properties, wear
resistance and electrical insulating properties, despite having a
reduced viscosity. Accordingly, the lubricating oil composition can
be applied as a transmission oil or a gear oil, and above all, as a
transmission oil for use in a hybrid vehicle.
* * * * *