PROFI-CAR Dictionary
Ceramics 1 - General information
It is a known fact that the automobile industry has been working flat out on the development of ceramic engines. These ceramics are already being used successfully in racing. Space industry also carries out research in that area and has found in the framework of their development program that ceramic products guarantee optimum lubrication even under extreme conditions.
When comparing ceramic materials to PTFE (e.g. teflon), the advantages of ceramic materials become clear:
| Frictional coefficient | 0.04 - 0.5 | 0.02 - 0.15 |
|---|---|---|
| Heat-trensfer coefficient | 0.24 W/mk | 40-70 W/mk |
| Max. action temperature | 260°C | 900°C |
| Decomposition temperature | 260°C - 330°C | ------ |
| Transition temperature | ------ | 1000°C |
| Particle size | Identical | Identical |
| Polarity | Non-polar | Polar |
| Adhesion to metal | No | Very good |
| Lubricating properties | up to 260°C | 1,100°C |
| Decomposition products | Harmful (FCKW) | Not harmful |
The above-mentioned values are very plain. The frictional resistance of ceramic materials is 50% less than the one of PTFE. Another very good advantage is the good adhesion on metal. The excellent thermal transfer properties and the very high maximum action temperature guarantee an action of the product - even in the event of an extreme load on the engine. Ceramics are not toxic and are biodegradable in addition.
They contain neither heavy metals ( MOS² ) nor do toxic gases develop during the combustion process (like for example with PTFE). For this reason, ceramics are environmentally neutral to a large extent.