Engine Lubrication system-Everything You need to know

In this article , we discuss engine lubrication system in detail.

What Is An Engine Lubrication System?

The engine lubrication system is a method by which engine components are kept lubricated, cooled, cleaned, and free from excess wear and deposits. Proper lubrication is essential for reducing friction, extending engine life, and ensuring smooth operation.

Watch video Real animation of engine lubrication system.

Main Functions of Lubrication System

✅ Reduces Frictional Wear:
Provides a film of oil between moving metal components (such as pistons, bearings, and camshafts), reducing metal-on-metal contact.

✅ Cooling:
Helps carry away excess heat from engine components — especially in high-frictional or high-temperature areas.

✅ Cleaning:
Transports dirt, debris, and metal particles to the oil filter, keeping the engine clean.

✅ Sealing:
Helps form a tight seal between piston rings and cylinder walls, retaining compression and preventing combustion gasses from escaping.

✅ Corrosion Prevention:
Protects metal components from rust and corrosion by adding a protective film.

Main Components of Lubrication System :

1️⃣ Oil Pan/Sump:
Reservoir where the engine oil is stored when the engine is not in operation.

2️⃣ Oil Pump:
Circulates oil under pressure to all the engine components.

3️⃣ Oil Filter:
Removes dirt, debris, and metal particles from the oil.

4️⃣ Oil Galleries (Passages):
Small channels through which pressurized oil flows to reach various components.

5️⃣ Pressure Regulating Valve:
Maintains proper pressure within the system and prevents overpressurization.

6️⃣ Oil Cooler (in some engines):
Cools down the oil if it reaches excessively high temperatures, retaining its viscosilty and lubricating properties.

Working of Engine lubrication systems:

Here is the step by step working of Engine lubrication systems.

Oil Reservoir (Sump):
Oil is stored in the oil pan at the bottom of the engine.

Oil Pump:
Draws oil from the sump and pressurizes it for circulation through the engine.

Oil Filter:
Before reaching the engine parts, oil passes through a filter to remove dust, metal particles, and sludge.

Distribution to Engine Parts:
Pressurized oil flows through oil galleries to lubricate:

Crankshaft
Camshaft
Pistons and connecting rods
Bearings
Valve mechanisms

Return to Sump:
After lubricating, oil drains back to the sump by gravity for reuse.

Types of Lubrification System

1. Mist Lubrication System
Used in small two-stroke engines. Oil is mixed with fuel, and the mixture lubricates engine parts as it passes through.

2. Splash Lubrication System
Common in older or small engines. A dipper attached to the crankshaft splashes oil from the sump onto moving parts.

3. Pressure Lubrication System
Used in most modern engines. An oil pump circulates oil under pressure through galleries to all critical engine parts.

4. Dry Sump Lubrication System
Used in high-performance or racing engines. Oil is stored in a separate tank, and multiple pumps circulate and scavenge oil, keeping the crankcase dry.

5. Wet Sump Lubrication System
Most common in standard vehicles. Oil is stored in the oil pan (sump) below the engine and circulated by a pump.

6. Combination (Splash and Pressure) System
A hybrid system where some parts are lubricated by oil splash and others by pressurized flow, often used in medium-duty engines.

Also Read: Types of lubrication system in detail.

Lubrification System Maintenance

✅ Regular Oil Change:
Remove old oil, replace with fresh, manufacturer-recommended grade.

✅ Oil Filter Replacement:
Change filter at specified intervals to avoid blockage.

✅ Checking Oil Level:
Using a dipstick to make sure it’s within proper range.

✅ Inspecting for Leaks:
Checking seals, gaskets, and lines for seepage.

✅ Maintaining Proper Oil Pressure:
Using pressure gauge to identify abnormalities.

🔹 Summary 🔹

The engine lubrication system is vital for engine health and performance. Proper lubrication reduces wear, prevents overheating, maintains engine cleanliness, prevents corrosion, and prolongs engine life. Without a well-functioning lubrication system, an engine would suffer catastrophic damage in a matter of minutes.

FAQ Section:

1. What is an engine lubrication system?
An engine lubrication system circulates oil to engine parts to reduce friction, dissipate heat, clean internal surfaces, and protect against wear.

2. Why is engine lubrication important?
It reduces friction between moving parts, prevents overheating, cleans components, and extends engine life.

3. What are the main components of a lubrication system?
The key parts include the oil pump, oil filter, oil pan (sump), pressure relief valve, and oil passages (galleries).

4. What type of oil is used in engine lubrication?
Mineral, synthetic, or semi-synthetic oils are used depending on the engine type and manufacturer specifications.

5. How does the oil pump work?
The oil pump pulls oil from the sump and pushes it through the filter and into the engine’s lubrication channels under pressure.

6. What is the function of the oil filter?
It removes contaminants and particles from the oil to prevent engine wear and damage.

7. What causes low oil pressure?
Low oil level, worn bearings, a failing oil pump, or clogged filters/passages can cause a drop in oil pressure.

8. What are signs of poor lubrication?
Common symptoms include engine noise (knocking/ticking), overheating, oil warning lights, smoke from the exhaust, and poor engine performance.

9. How often should engine oil be changed?
Typically every 5,000 to 10,000 kilometers, or as recommended by the vehicle manufacturer based on driving conditions.