AU25C02 Automotive Fuels, Lubricants and Coolants – Semester IV – Auto / Mech(Auto) – R-2025

Subject Code & Name: AU25C02 – Automotive Fuels, Lubricants and Coolants

Regulation: R-2025

Semester: IV (Fourth Semester)

Branch: B.E. Automobile Engineering (Auto) / B.E. Mechanical Engineering (Automobile) (Mech(Auto))

Credits / L-T-P: 3 Credits | L-T-P: 3-0-0

Course Objectives

• This course provides a comprehensive understanding of fuel and lubricant refining processes, lubrication mechanisms, and the testing of their properties for internal combustion engine applications.
• It also emphasizes the evaluation of additives to enhance performance and reduce emissions.

Full Unit-wise Syllabus

Unit I – Refining of Fuels and Lubricants

Structure and composition of petroleum – Refining processes – Distillation and cracking – Catalytic reforming – Alkylation, isomerisation and polymerization – Finishing process and blending – Products of refining process – Manufacture of lubricating oil base stocks – Manufacture of finished automotive lubricants.

Activities: Prepare a flow diagram of petroleum refining and analyze refinery products.

Unit II – Lubricants and Coolants

Engine friction – Total engine friction – Effect of engine variables on friction – Theories of lubrication: hydrodynamic, elasto-hydrodynamic and boundary lubrication – Bearing lubrication – Functions and design of lubrication systems – Classification and specific requirements of automotive lubricants – Oxidation, deterioration and degradation – Tests on lubricants and grease – Re- refining of used oils – Coolants: types, properties and functions.

Activities: Compare lubrication regimes and evaluate lubricant and coolant performance.

Unit III – Properties, Testing, and Additives

Properties and testing of fuels – Density, calorific value, flash point, fire point, distillation, vapour pressure, spontaneous ignition temperature, viscosity, pour point, flammability, ignitability, diesel index, API gravity, aniline point, carbon residue – Biofuels: properties and testing – Fuel and lubricant additives: mechanism, functions and requirements – ASTM and SAE standards and specifications.

Activities: Test fuel/lubricant properties and analyze the effect of additives.

Course Outcomes (COs)

• CO1: Describe fundamental concepts of fuel refining processes, lubricants, coolants, their properties, testing methods, and additives used in IC engine applications.
• CO2: Utilize knowledge of fuel and lubricant properties to determine performance characteristics and suitability for engine applications.
• CO3: Examine fuel and lubricant behavior, degradation mechanisms, and the influence of additives on performance and emissions.
• CO4: Assess and propose suitable fuel, lubricant, and coolant solutions for enhancing engine performance, efficiency, and emission control.

Assessment Pattern (Quick Note)

• Weightage: Continuous Assessment 40% | End Semester Examinations 60%
• Internal methodology: Quiz (5%), Assignments (25%), Review of GATE/ESE Questions (20%), Internal Examinations (50%)

Source: Official Anna University – B.E. Automobile Engineering R-2025 Syllabus
Last Updated: October 2026