Understanding the Different Types of Base Oils
When you pull up to a petrol station to fill your vehicle’s tank, you might not think too much about the liquid flowing into your car. In reality, what you’re putting into your engine is a precisely blended mixture of base oils and additives to ensure it operates smoothly and effectively. In this in-depth blog, we’ll delve into the world of base oils used in petrol stations, offered by OIL HOUSE. We will examine their varieties, characteristics, and vital functions in keeping your car on the road.
Conventional Motor Oil
A cornerstone of the automobile industry, conventional motor oil, also known as mineral oil, is produced by refining crude oil. It is well known for being inexpensive and dependable. Conventional motor oil comes in several viscosity categories, with 5W-30 and 10W-40 being two of the most popular. These numbers indicate the oil’s flow properties at both high and low temperatures.
Synthetic Motor Oil
An excellent alternative to traditional motor oil is synthetic motor oil. Its outstanding lubrication, stability, and engine protection are the result of chemical engineering. Higher-performance and newer vehicles benefit greatly from the superior performance of synthetic oils, especially in high-temperature conditions.
Semi Synthetic Motor Oil
Semi-synthetic motor oil, also known as synthetic blend oil, is a mixture of conventional and synthetic oils. While it is more affordable than fully synthetic oil, this hybrid option offers some of the advantages of synthetic oil. It provides better performance and protection compared to traditional oil.
High Mileage Motor Oil
High mileage motor oil is designed for vehicles with a significant number of miles on the odometer. It typically contains special additives that reduce oil consumption, prevent leaks, and help preserve and condition ageing engine components.
Specialty Engine Oils
In addition to the standard options, petrol stations may offer specialty engine oils designed for specific uses. These oils contain unique formulations to meet the particular needs of various engines, including:
- High-performance racing cars and racing oils.
- Diesel-powered vehicles and their specific diesel engine oils.
- Engine oils made from natural gas for vehicles running on compressed natural gas (CNG).
- Two- and four-stroke motor oils.
Common Applications
The various types of engine oils find common applications in the following:
- Racing vehicles.
- Diesel-powered vehicles.
- Natural gas vehicles.
- Motorcycles.
Summary
To keep your car running smoothly, it’s crucial to understand the many kinds of base oils available at petrol stations. Choosing the right engine oil can improve fuel economy, extend engine life, and provide a smoother ride. By understanding your car’s unique requirements and the conditions in which it operates, you can select the optimal oil for a well-lubricated and trouble-free engine. The next time you’re at the petrol station, remember the importance of the base oil that keeps your engine operating smoothly.