There are mainly the following lubrication methods for steering knuckle:
1. Grease lubrication
This is a more common lubrication method. Apply special lubricating grease to key parts of the steering knuckle, such as the ball head and kingpin. This grease usually has good adhesion and wear resistance, and can form a protective film on the metal surface to reduce friction and wear.
The advantage of grease lubrication is that the operation is relatively simple and the cost is low. During car maintenance, maintenance personnel can easily add grease to the steering knuckle. Moreover, grease can prevent the invasion of moisture and dust to a certain extent and protect the parts inside the steering knuckle. However, grease lubrication also has some shortcomings. With the passage of time and the influence of friction, high temperature and other factors during use, the grease may gradually drain and deteriorate, reducing the lubrication effect. Therefore, it is necessary to check and replenish the grease regularly.
2. Oil bath lubrication
In some high-end models or specific steering knuckle designs, oil bath lubrication is used. This method is to immerse some parts of the steering knuckle in lubricating oil and achieve lubrication through the circulation of lubricating oil.
The advantage of oil bath lubrication is that it can continuously provide sufficient lubrication for the steering knuckle, because the lubricating oil circulates continuously, which can take away the heat generated by friction, reduce the temperature and extend the service life of the steering knuckle. At the same time, due to the good fluidity of the lubricating oil, it can better cover the surface of each part to ensure the uniformity of lubrication. However, the system of oil bath lubrication is relatively complex and requires special sealing devices to prevent lubricating oil leakage, which increases the cost of manufacturing and maintenance. Moreover, if there is a problem with the seal, the leakage of lubricating oil may cause pollution to the environment.
3. Solid lubricant lubrication
In recent years, with the development of material technology, some new solid lubricants have also begun to be used in Car steering knuckle. For example, materials such as molybdenum disulfide and graphite can be made into solid lubricant coatings and applied to the surface of steering knuckle parts.
Solid lubricant lubrication has many unique advantages. First, they can still maintain good lubrication performance under harsh environments such as high temperature and high pressure, and are suitable for various complex working conditions. Secondly, solid lubricants will not be lost and pollute the environment as easily as grease and lubricating oil, and have a longer service life. However, the application of solid lubricants also has some challenges, such as the high requirements for the preparation process of the coating, the relatively high cost, and once the coating is damaged, professional repair methods are required.
In short, the lubrication methods of Car steering knuckles have their own advantages and disadvantages. In actual use, car manufacturers and maintenance personnel will choose the appropriate lubrication method to ensure the normal operation and service life of the steering knuckle according to different models, usage environment and cost considerations.
