Shell Lubricants has agreed a two-year research and development partnership with Tsinghua University.
Laser etching is used for ultra-high precision metalworking applications Image: Metal Craft |
The agreement, will bring the world's largest oil company together with China’s State Key Laboratory of Tribology to use the world’s most advanced resources and research specialisations. The joint research will concentrate on reducing friction and enhancing surface protection of various lubrication liquids.
Techniques will include the use of laser-focused ion etching to create various shaped “dimples” on metalic and other surfaces with diameters in the range of 50 to 200 microns and depths of two to 10 microns.
The outcomes are aimed at advancing original equipment manufacturer (OEM) lubrication science for Shell and also developing new research methods in the field of lubrication science.
And at the same time, Tsinghua University will be given access to Shell’s global lubrication technology and research centers in the UK, Germany, US, and elsewhere in China, while Shell researchers will be able to work closely with Chinese lubricant scientists and tribologists to create innovative solutions that could benefit Shell's own customers.