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190 million barrels per year. Automobiles also are predominantly gasoline-powered, and they
account for almost 200 million barrels equivalent per year. While total elimination of friction
and wear obviously is impossible, eliminating even a small fraction would have tremendous
benefits, and a significant reduction certainly appears to be achievable.
account for almost 200 million barrels equivalent per year. While total elimination of friction
and wear obviously is impossible, eliminating even a small fraction would have tremendous
benefits, and a significant reduction certainly appears to be achievable.
As shown in Figure 3, the largest sources of frictional losses are pistons, rings, and connecting
rods. For heavy-duty vehicles, these components account for 40 million barrels per year; for
light trucks, about 60 million barrels per year; and for automobiles, over 90 million barrels per
year (see Table 5).
rods. For heavy-duty vehicles, these components account for 40 million barrels per year; for
light trucks, about 60 million barrels per year; and for automobiles, over 90 million barrels per
year (see Table 5).
Figure 3. Percentage Energy Losses in Various Engine
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