Lubricant Additives Industry Newsletter Vol. 1
Lubricant Additives Industry Newsletter Vol. 1
Dispelling the Myth: Engine Oil Color Drives Performance
There are several perceptions about engine oil color and its effectiveness in performance.
Some people say darker oil aged prematurely, while others say color can be used as visual indications of oxidation. Some even go ahead to say that darker oils are counterfeit. However, are these facts or merely misconceptions?
OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) engineers were surveyed and 100% of respondents said they would not recommend an oil based on its color as the color has no impact on performance.
The perception that a lighter oil color signifies a counterfeit product or a darker oil color signifies a used oil resold as new is all a myth, because the color of the oil is not an indicator of its performance. See image 1.0 proving better TBN retention for HiTEC in spite of the fresh oil color.
TBN and KV checks are good indicators to see if an oil is fresh or used, and genuine or fake. Engine test performance and field trials are the only way to prove oil performance – regardless of its color.
Interview:
Mr. Olufemi Ogunleye - Technical Sales Manager, Cormart Nigeria Limited
Q. Please tell us about yourself.
Ans. My name is Olufemi Ogunleye. I graduated from Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, where I studied Chemical Engineering. I had my Master degree in Process Engineering at University of Lagos and MBA at Ladoke Akintola University of Technology. I am a member of Nigeria Society of Engineers and have worked in the Petroleum downstream sector for a decade prior to joining Cormart with several local and international training.
Q. How would you say AFTON has grown in Cormart since its inception ?
Ans. Interestingly, the Afton business has improved over years looking at the initial numbers of product portfolio we had which was later streamlined to the selected regular and marketable products list. In addition, the business has grown in it contribution to the bottom line of the company as well.
Q. What new industry trends do you advice customers to keep up with?
Ans. The emergence of Covid-19 in recent years has caused a paradigm shift in the industry globally and consequently affected raw material sourcing, product, distribution amongst others. As such, the industrial grades of lubricants have more been affected. Considering the Nigeria market, Automotive grades of lubricants will still continue to take the lead even though raw material supply is affected. As such, it is advised that blenders needs to re-strategize and consider possible partnership with local suppliers of raw material to stay in business.
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Read MoreProduct Spotlight: HITEC 9325G
Versatile Cascade Additive Solution for Mainstream API SG to SL
HiTEC® 9325G is a versatile cascade additive package, efficiently designed for passenger car, light duty diesel & 4-stroke motorcycle engine oil applications. This “all-in-one” solution is ideal for oil marketers who produce engine oils for different vehicle types, making production even simpler.
Key Performance Benefits
- Versatile additive package, i.e., excellent balance between gasoline and diesel requirements with one additive package.
- Further enhancement to cover motorcycle engine requirements with appropriate boosters.
- Broad specification coverage from APISG/CD to SL/CF/CF-4. • Wide viscosity grade coverage from 10W-30,10W-40,15W-40,20W- 40 & 20W-50.
- All data demonstrated by engine testing allowing licensed API claims*, where applicable. * Please contact your Afton sales representative for specific formulation recommendations for API License matters.
Handling Information
- Recommended Storage and Handling Temp: 40-45°C
- Max Storage Temp: 50°C
- Max Handling Temp: 70°C
- Maximum Blending Temp: 70°C
- Shelf Life: 24 months @ ambient temperature (10 – 40°C)
Technical Advice & Tips
New Research Reveals Why Fuel Quality Matters
A recent independent study from the American Automobile Association (AAA) has shown that significant differences in the quality of gasoline sold in the United States have a notable impact on engine performance.
The AAA study found that non-TOP TIER™ gasoline caused 19 times more engine deposits than TOP TIER™ brands after only 4,000 miles of simulated use. These carbon engine deposits (figure 1) are a destructive force within engines that can reduce fuel economy, increase emissions, and decrease engine life.
In contrast, TOP TIER fuels contain higher levels of detergent in order to mitigate combustion by-products, maintain optimal performance of the engine, and reduce emissions.
To protect vehicle engines, AAA recommends that users select a gasoline that meets TOP TIER™ standards.
The results of the AAA study support Cormart’s and Afton Chemical’s long-held commitment to high-quality products that deliver benefits for automobiles, the environment, and communities.
