Do you know where the LUBE in a lubricant came from? Let Mr.Lhor tell you!
Lubricants are what helps lubricate various parts inside the engine, gear, differential, machine etc.. Furthermore, it can also help cool, wash away any dirt, and contribute to other benefits that will help cars and machines run more efficiently as well.
But have you ever wondered What does it consist of? What are the processes to make the lubricants?Today, PTT Lubricants have an answer for you! Let’s see how we got that LUBE!
Components of lubricants
First of all, let’s get to know what lubricating oils consist of.
All of lubricating oils consist of two components:
1. Lubricant Base Oil
Lubricant base oil is the main component of a lubricant and takes up to 70-80%* of it. The base oil can be categorized into 2 types as follows:
A. Mineral Base Oil
The mineral base oil is derived from the process of crude oil refining. During the refinery, the crude oil will go through chemical processes until it reaches a certain level of purity where the remains can still be found. Lubricants made from mineral base oils, therefore, will deteriorate quickly and have a short lifespan in comparison with synthetic oils.
B. Synthetic base oil
Synthetic base oil can be divided into two types:
- Oil derived from crude oil refining processes and undergo various chemical processes to achieve higher purity, such as Group III base oils
- Synthetic oil synthesized with chemical processes to have the specified properties, such as Poly Alpha Olefins (PAO) and Esters, etc
Due to its high purity and quality, the synthetic base oil will have better lubrication efficiency, longer service life and higher price.
2. Additives
Despite being only 20-30%* of the composition, additives are also very important as they are substances with specific properties that will distinguish each type of lubricants, giving them different properties. These additives will also improve lubrication efficiency and prolong the service life of the lubricants.
Every type of lubricant requires different quality additives to make it suitable for use. The common additives are such as detergent, dispersant, anti-wear, extreme pressure additives, etc.
When combining the two components, it will result in a lubricant that we currently use. However, in order to formulate a quality lubricant, both components will have to be meticulously studied and developed so that they can provide the best efficiency that will match the type of use.
Remark: * The ratios between lubricant base oils and additives are varied depending on types and qualities of the lubricating oils.
If you want to learn more about the right lubricant for your car, don’t forget to visit PTT Lubricants website for more information! Get your high quality lubricants today at every FIT Auto, PTT Station or any store that carries PTT Lubricants products near you. 💙