FL-97-115 THE IMPACT OF BASE STOCK ON LUBRICANT PERFORMANCE

Description:

Hydroprocessed base stocks have received considerable attention lately due, in part, to several new highly publicized lube hydroprocessing operations that have streamed this year. This includes Mobil’s new lube hydrocracker in Asia (‘) . Hydroprocessed base stocks, including API Group III, have benefits in selected lubricant applications. However differences exist, even between hydroprocessed base stocks, and they cannot approach the level of performance Mobil has attained using synthetic base stocks, particularly API Group IV - PAO. Mobil’s experience has also highlighted several areas where hydroprocessed base stocks do not perform as well as solvent refined stocks. Applications requiring high viscosity, and additive and/or contaminant solubility, including circulating oils, gear oils and marine oils, are important examples.