And although the frictional losses account for only a small part of the total power loss, reducing them is seen as an increasingly important part of the overall quest to improve fuel economy. Both engineering solutions and lubricant technology can make a significant improvement throughout the powertrain. But the situation is complex. The engine alone contains many different environments, all of which need their lubrication optimised if power losses are to be minimised. But similar patterns are clearly not in evidence in Western Europe.
Insight asks if there really are any benefits to after-market gasoline additives.
These engines are commonly used in marine applications and for power generation. And in both of these areas, reliability and the minimum of unscheduled stops are paramount. Buyers want engines which are more highly rated, have lower oil consumption and have longer service intervals. And the result is a much greater stress on the engine lubricant. More than ever before, effective lubricant additive technology is critical to these engines' trouble-free operation.