In this article, we discuss the various types of engine lubrications in detail.
In this article :
Types of Lubrification System :
Lubrication systems are essential for reducing friction and wear in engine components. Different types of lubrication systems are used depending on the engine design, application, and performance needs. Each system delivers oil to moving parts in a specific way to ensure efficient operation and long engine life.
1. Splash Lubrification System :
Explanation:
This is the simplest form of lubrication.
In this method, the bottom of the connecting rod or a small scoop attached to it dips into the oil bath in the crankcase with each rotation of the crankshaft. This action splashed oil upward, lubricating the cylinder walls, pistons, and other components.
✅ Application:
- Mainly used in small, low-powered, or single-cylinder engines (like lawnmowers or small agricultural machinery).
✅ Advantages:
- Simple, reliable, low-cost, and maintenance-free.
- Few moving components.
✅ Limitations:
- Less accurate delivery of oil — not suitable for high-load or high-speed engines.
- Limited control over pressure or flow.
- May lead to poor lubrication under heavy-load or high rpm.
2. Pressure Lubrication System:
🧾 Explanation:
In this system, an oil pump is used to circulate oil under pressure to all moving parts of the engine. The oil flows through filters and oil galleries, reaching critical components such as the crankshaft bearings, camshaft, and valve train.
✅ Application:
Widely used in modern multi-cylinder automotive and industrial engines.
✅ Advantages:
- Provides consistent and controlled oil delivery
- Effective at high speeds and loads
- Better cooling and lubrication of critical parts
✅ Limitations:
- More complex and expensive than splash systems
- Requires regular maintenance (filter and oil changes)
3. Mist Lubrication system:
🧾 Explanation:
In this method, lubricating oil is mixed with fuel (usually at a specific ratio) and enters the engine as a fine mist during intake. As the mixture passes through the crankcase and combustion chamber, it lubricates moving parts.
✅ Application:
Common in two-stroke engines such as motorcycles, chainsaws, and small outboard motors.
✅ Advantages:
- Simple and lightweight design
- No separate lubrication system needed
✅ Limitations:
- Incomplete lubrication at low speeds
- Increased exhaust emissions
- Higher oil consumption
4. Dry Sump Lubrication System:
🧾 Explanation:
Oil is stored in a separate tank, not in the crankcase. Scavenge pumps remove oil from the crankcase and transfer it to the tank. A pressure pump then sends oil back into the engine components under high pressure.
✅ Application:
Used in high-performance engines, racing cars, and aircraft engines.
✅ Advantages:
- Prevents oil starvation during extreme acceleration or cornering
- Allows for better engine cooling and design flexibility
- More oil capacity and better temperature control
✅ Limitations:
- Complex and costly system
- Requires more space and components
5. Wet Sump Lubrication System:
🧾 Explanation:
In this common system, oil is stored in a sump located at the bottom of the engine. A pump draws oil from the sump and delivers it under pressure to various engine parts. Excess oil drains back to the sump by gravity.
Also Read : Dry sump vs Wet sump Lubrication systems- Which is best?
✅ Application:
Standard system in most passenger vehicles, light trucks, and motorcycles.
✅ Advantages:
- Compact and easy to maintain
- Cost-effective for mass production
✅ Limitations:
- Oil starvation risk during steep angles or hard acceleration
- Less suitable for high-performance conditions
6. Combination (Splash and Pressure) System
🧾 Explanation:
This system uses both splash and pressure mechanisms. Main bearings and critical parts receive pressurized oil, while other components like cylinder walls are lubricated by splash created from rotating parts.
✅ Application:
Common in medium-duty engines and older automotive engines.
✅ Advantages:
- Balanced performance for engines with mixed lubrication needs
- More efficient than splash alone but less complex than full pressure systems
✅ Limitations:
- Still limited for high-speed or high-load operations
- Requires regular oil maintenance for both splash and pressure zones
🔹 Summary 🔹
✅ Splash — Simple, Reliable, Low-cost, for small engines with low power.
✅ Pressure Feed — Controlled, Reliable, Higher Performance, for most modern engines.
✅ Dry Sump — Best for Extreme Performance or Specialty Applications, where G-forces or space constraints prohibit traditional sumps.
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