AEROSPACE
The changing landscape of aerospace lubricants
Arnab Chowdhury, Senior Consultant, Arizton – Research and Markets
Lubricants in aviation: Steady and mandated requirement
Necessity: Sustainability, product innovations, and new aircraft types The aerospace industry requires extremely efficient, lightweight, and functional lubricants. Cost compatibility along with operational conditions, are the important factors for lubricant selection processes. Aerospace lubricants are specially manufactured for application in aircraft engines and fuel systems. The global aerospace lubricants market is projected to reach $3.05 billion by 2027, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of more than 6.0% from 2022 to 2027, According to Arizton Advisory & Intelligence Report. Continuous innovation and advancements in technology catering to the diverse aviation needs – such as increasing the service life of turbines and engines, reducing carbon footprint, improving fuel economy, supplying aerospace lubricants with low viscosity, and meeting the changing emission standards set by various governmental and non-governmental entities – are the major driving factors.
Lubricants reduce friction among engines and moving parts in aero planes. They help to fight corrosion and rust in engines. In the aviation sector, single- graded oils such as 100 grade and 80 grade have been used for years. However, multi-graded oils such as 20W50 and 15W50 are, currently witnessing increased application. Advantages such as extensive working temperature ranges, increased fluidity, and
higher substantial fuel savings (1.5%–3.0%) than monograde oils are increasing the application of multi-grade lubricants.
The electric revolution Aviation lubricants need to change with the increasing demand for high-efficiency engines and hybrid technology. The electrification of aeroplanes has started. Several companies, such as Diamond Aircraft Industries, Eviation, Pipistrel, among others, have launched prototypes of electric aircraft, airworthy hybrids, and all-electric aircraft.
Electric propulsion offers cost savings throughout the lifespan of an aircraft and is environmentally sustainable, making these planes an attractive option for the future. According to industry experts, electric airplanes expect to offer up to 70% low operating costs per flight hour. In the next decade, electric planes are likely to operate commercially. By 2035, the electric aircraft sector is projected to witness the launch of small and personal aircraft. However, for large aircrafts, battery efficiencies require enchantments for optimum performance for commercial purposes.
Companies such as Bell, Toyota, and Airbus, among others, are developing e-helicopters as air taxis and delivery vehicles in urban transportation. The electric- VTOL market has witnessed significant investments as electrified vehicles are fast emerging as a feasible substitute to conventional urban transportation in megacities.
Continued on page 14 LUBE MAGAZINE NO.172 DECEMBER 2022 13
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