Previous articles have shown us that engine oil is constantly evolving to keep up with advancements in technology. As engines evolve so too does the engine oil. This is no different in the construction industry where heavy equipment has moved towards Tier 4 diesel engine technology. Tier 4 engines burn cleaner, creating much less soot, but at the same time require a lubricant with better resistance to oxidation, especially if there is a need to increase oil drain intervals. As diesel engine technology and fuel formulations have progressed so too has the demands on heavy duty engine oils. So what should a construction/ off road operator look for when selecting the right engine oil to get the best results? Below we will highlight some tips to ensure that your machinery performs at an optimum level.
Is heavier better?
There is a misconception that an engine oil with a heavier viscosity is needed to protect large diesel engines and that a lower viscosity oil would be too thin. But for construction and off-road applications to oils with a lower viscosity such as 10W-30 oils to improve fuel economy while at the same time providing strong protection. The most important factor from this? Always consult with the equipment provider to confirm the exact requirement for the engine, the type of environment it functions in and its operating cycle.
Will my Oil wear out?
Engine oil will wear out over time and need to be replaced, with a number of factors contributing to this time period. The build-up of containments such as soot, dirt from the air induction system, coolant leaks and even the depletion of the additive system in the oil. All oils will wear out, especially when the operating environment. The most effective way to gauge the health of your engine oil is to use an oil analysis service, which can create a picture of the oil breakdown and its contributing factors.
Additional Additives
A myth that pops up in a number of industries is that adding an external additive can increase the performance of the oil. The majority of reliable engine oils already contain optimized additives. Any additional additives could affect the existing chemistry and even reduce the performance of those already in the oil.
Construction and off-road lubricants at Finol
Working in the construction and off-road sector you need lubricants that ensure your equipment performs at the highest level. Whether it is bulldozers, dump trucks, scrapers and shovels, all construction equipment face harsh conditions and need a lubricant that can cope with this. Exposure to extreme cold or heat, moisture, dust and dirt can hurt performance and generic products just won’t cut it. Finols extensive range of lubricants satisfy all international standards ( ACEA, API, JASO, etc.) and approvals from the leading manufacturers in this industry and are made to enhance and protect the engines the machinery you rely on and help eliminate downtime. Contact Finol Oils today to find out more about our dedicated lubricants to this sector.
