AM-97-53 BASE OILS TO MEET FUTURE LUBRICANT REQUIREMENTS: ILSAC GF-3 AND BEYOND

Description:

Until recently, evolutionary changes in specifications for automotive lubricants could be met through changes in the types or amounts of the additives used in the products, while changes in base oils were usually not required. However, with more recent standards such as ILSAC GF-2 and API PC-7 putting heavier pressure on lubricant performance, the demand for more advanced conv&ttional (Group II) base stocks has begun to grow significantly. In the future, as GF-3 and PC-8 standards are phased in, unconventional (Group III) as well as Group II base stocks will be required to help meet the most stringent hurdles of higher fuel economy, better engine protection, lower oil consumption, extended lubricant life and sustained emissions performance that engine and auto manufacturers will demand. This paper discusses the improved thermal and oxidation stability, low temperature properties, volatility, and other benefits that will help these advanced base oils meet next-generation standards for automotive lubricants.