Multi-phase lubricant process for lubricating with multi-phase lubricants

Abstract

An apparatus for lubricating an operating component of a system in which the operating component is exposed to a range of conditions, such as a range of temperatures, which require adjustment of at least one physical property of the lubricant is described. In one embodiment, at least a portion of the operating component is located within a lubricant reservoir which contains a first lubricant of low density and high viscosity and a second lubricant of higher density and lower viscosity. During certain operating conditions, the lubricants are at least partially immiscible, usually at lower temperatures, and the first lubricant is appropriate for those operating conditions. A change in at least one operating condition which promotes at least partial miscibility of the lubricants, such as higher temperatures, causes the first and second lubricants to mix, at least partially, and form a third lubricant. The third lubricant has at least one property which differs from that of the first and second lubricants, usually a different viscosity. The third lubricant contacts the operating component and is more appropriate for lubricating under the condition which causes at least partial miscibility. In an alternative embodiment the operating component is not located within the lubricant reservoir and the lubricant is conveyed to the operating component. Processes for lubricating are also described.