Starting friction is low in Hydrostatic lubrication

Starting friction refers to the resistance encountered when an object begins to move from a resting position. It is the initial friction that needs to be overcome to set an object in motion. In the context of lubrication, starting friction is the resistance between two surfaces in contact before a lubricating film is established.

Hydrostatic lubrication is a type of lubrication where a fluid, usually oil, is pumped into the bearing or the contact area between two surfaces to create a pressurized fluid film. This fluid film separates the surfaces and reduces friction and wear.

In hydrostatic lubrication, the starting friction is low due to the following reasons:

1. Fluid Film Formation:
- In hydrostatic lubrication, the fluid is supplied under pressure to the bearing or contact area.
- This pressurized fluid creates a film between the two surfaces, preventing direct metal-to-metal contact.
- The fluid film acts as a lubricant, reducing the friction and allowing for smooth movement.

2. Pressure Distribution:
- The pressurized fluid in hydrostatic lubrication creates a pressure distribution across the contact area.
- This pressure distribution helps to evenly distribute the load and reduce localized high-pressure areas.
- By reducing the pressure peaks, the starting friction is minimized.

3. High Pressure:
- Hydrostatic lubrication operates at high pressures, which helps to generate a sufficient fluid film thickness.
- The high pressure ensures that the fluid film is thick enough to separate the surfaces effectively.
- Thicker fluid film means lower contact pressure and consequently lower starting friction.

4. High Viscosity Fluid:
- Hydrostatic lubrication typically uses high viscosity fluids, such as oil.
- High viscosity fluids have better load-carrying capacity and film thickness.
- This allows for a more effective separation of the contacting surfaces and reduces the starting friction.

Overall, hydrostatic lubrication is designed to provide a smooth and low-friction operation, especially during startup. The pressurized fluid film formation, pressure distribution, high pressure, and high viscosity fluid all contribute to reducing the starting friction and ensuring efficient lubrication between the surfaces.