2. Wear control
Worn down engine components break more easily and operate less efficient than their wear-free counterparts. Engine oils contain extreme pressure and/or other anti-wear additives to keep all engine parts wear free. But be cautious! These additives can cause additional oxidation, so make sure to only use oils from an accredited lubricant blender with extensive know-how.
Additives are a great way to reduce friction, but the right viscosity is also vital for complete wear control. Too runny lubricants can’t prevent the metal surfaces from wearing each other down while a too solid lubricant will increase fuel consumption and can’t reach the critical areas of lubrication in time after you start the engine. A great example of this balance is found within the massive bearings of heavy-duty engines.
Vehicles equipped with heavy-duty bearings require oil that has the right load-carrying capacity to prevent the rotating elements from wearing and seizing. Engine oil with low fluidity and advanced anti-wear additives keeps all components protected while minimising the friction within the bearing.
3. Sludge and deposit control
Dirt, dust and debris coming from inside or outside the engine are always looking for a place to settle and form deposits. A stream of air or oil carries these particulates until they encounter the right conditions to form deposit.
Different types of particulates form deposits under different conditions, let us use the piston as an example:
• Piston crown: solid deposits can form on top of the piston crown. These troublesome formations trap the heat generated within the combustion chamber.
• Piston skirt: varnish hinders the cooling of the piston, directly increasing friction & wear.
A balanced engine oil containing detergents and dispersants will prevent deposits from forming and will actively remove existing deposits, directly increasing the lifespan of the engine. Getting those extra hours out of each vehicle within your fleet will increase return on equipment investment.