Case Study: Sunroof Lubrication with Molykote
The Client
A market-leading automotive manufacturer was looking for a lubricating solution for their sunroof systems.
White lithium greases commonly used for sunroof applications did not match the specifications of the manufacturer, leading to a demand for a new solution.
The Problem
The lubricating solution required was to match the following specifications:
- Be applied to sliding surfaces under heavy loads.
- Provide a consistently-low coefficient of friction.
- Perform as intended at low temperatures.
- Exhibit a clean appearance.
- Reduce noise and vibrations when opening and closing the sunroof.
- Improve the safety of vehicle occupants.
- Provide compatibility with plastic materials.
- Be flexible for larger and more complex sunroof designs.
- Improve durability for longer service life.
The Solution
Molykote experts worked with the automotive manufacturer to determine Molykote G-1033 as the ideal solution for this application. This lubricant was created using the original Molykote PAO formula as a base, maximising functionality and compatibility with sunroof systems.
Molykote G-1033 is a PAO grease with excellent lubricity and noise-damping properties. It provides compatibility with plastics – including fibre-reinforced plastics – and metals. It provides a wide operating temperature range and low friction. This lubricant has effectively been used in the industrial assembly of slides for automotive parts.
The Benefits
Through using Molykote G-1033, the automotive manufacturer was able to achieve:
- Superior lubrication – leading to reduced wear and noise-dampening capabilities.
- Excellent comfort for driver and passengers – reduced vibrations, noise and judder during sunroof operation.
- High-performance from -45°C to 120°C – consistent and reliable at various temperatures.
- Lightweighting – less friction on different substrates used in the sunroof.
- Improved cleanliness – low oil build-up and bleed.
- Improved safety – faster opening of the sunroof in response to potential obstructions.
- Extended durability – resistance to corrosion, water-washout and evaporation.
