Investigation of rain resistant chain lubrication performance

The bicycle chain is the medium of transferring the muscular power generated by the rider to the wheels to propel towards the finishing line. Chain lubrication plays an important role in friction management to achieve maximum efficiency. Every single link contributes to the sliding and rolling motion which requires optimized lubrication for maximum energy transfer. Racing under rain and dirt over a prolonged period can cause severe chain corrosion and then lead to chain break accident. This study aims to investigate rain resistant chain lubricant to have better water-repelling properties, more effective application and greater longevity. 5 types of lubricants commonly applied by riders were used as the sample in this study to compare the rain resistance performance. Therefore, understanding the working conditions such as the weather elements, environment temperature and contaminants are critical before investigating the characteristics and performance of the lubricant. Adreno chain lubricant achieved the lowest viscosity of 2.62 cSt at 100°C during testing using the ASTM D445 Standard Test Method for Kinematic Viscosity of Transparent and Opaque Liquids. Under the UV Light visual observation, the lowest viscosity lubricant filled up 110 links for the first test and 111 links for the second test under the observation of UV Light. Adreno chain lubricant also shows superior results in copper corrosion test compared to the commonly used mineral oil. In conclusion, Adreno chain lubricant’s overall properties are significantly superior in all the testing condition and can potentially apply in other application that requires lasting and effective lubrication under challenging weather condition.