Gaining Efficiency and Protecting Automatic Transmission Hardware in a Low Viscosity Environment

摘要

The automotive industry has been moving towards lower viscosity fluids in pursuit of efficiency: lower viscosity engine oils, lower viscosity axle lubricants, and lower viscosity transmission fluids. However, though lowering viscosity can increase efficiency, there is real concern that it could also decrease hardware durability. In this presentation we provide a brief evolution of automatic transmission fluid (ATF) technology, including the recent drive towards lower viscosity fluids to improve fuel economy and reduce emissions. We describe situations where lower viscosity may not achieve this goal, but demonstrate that with the correct additive technology, automatic transmission hardware can be protected even when operating with fluids below the specified viscosity range. Finally, we discuss possible trends driving further reduction in viscosity for hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs).