But blending a quality lubricant with all the right viscometric properties is not as straightforward as it may seem. As our expectations change and specifications evolve, the blender's job is becoming increasingly difficult as they try to reconcile high and low temperature viscosity, shear performance and many other considerations while meeting both ACEA and SAE J300 specifications. Solving the particle problem New engine technologies plus higher quality fuels and lubricants mean that diesel vehicle performance is increasing in leaps and bounds, and the once-characteristic smoky emissions are now almost invisible. But diesel emissions are still raising a number of issues, among them that their particulate emissions are much higher than in equivalent gasoline vehicles. And with increasing concerns for air quality, particulate reduction is moving higher up the priority list.
Insight takes a look at the available options.
The new tests have been born of the need for improved emissions performance, better fuel economy and reduced high temperature piston deposits. Today's market forces are driving the development of products whose performance and specifications must meet criteria probably thought impossible ten years ago. Increasingly complex, finely tuned formulations must meet increasingly stringent performance requirements. And today's additives must not only perform well in the lubricant, but they must meet, or at least help to augment, environmental needs, and must do so at reasonable cost. Viscosity modifier or VM additives and their associated technologies are a case in point.