Factors to Consider in Determining the Engine Oil Quality

Machines run smoothly with the help of lubricants. But then, it is known that their engine parts are constantly in friction. With this, the type of lubricant to use to ensure that the machine is running properly would be high-quality engine oil. It plays a huge role in allowing the machine to operate in their full capacity. Moreover, the energy lost through the combustion and the friction between mechanical parts causes the engine temperature to rise. And through lubrication with engine oil, it helps release the heat through the lubrication circuit. It has the ability to supplement the coolant, which can only cool certain parts of the engine.

Engine Oil

Engine oil also holds a cleaning power, which is helpful for the performance of a machine as well. Microscopic deposits, such as dust or combustion residue, can build up in the engine and remain in suspension. Therefore, without engine oil, the residue would clog the engine, and its performance might decrease. The flow of the engine oil can continuously carry these impurities to the oil filter, where they are trapped. This is also considered to be detrimental for the entire machine, as the fuel combustion generates corrosive acid that can damage the engine parts. But then, the corrosion can be slowed down, given the certain additives that were added to modern engine oils.

With this, in contact with oxygen over time, engine oil may be oxidized and will no longer play its corrosion inhibiting role. This is the reason why it is also necessary for the engine oil to be regularly changed, for them to truly serve all of its purposes as well.

While most of the engine oils available are created to meet the typical standards, the general and specific qualities still vary widely. Which is why you must have to always check whether the one you bought is of high quality. Poor-quality engine oil was made available to the market, mixed with those that are made appropriate for engines. Thus, you have to consider certain factors in terms of determining the engine oil quality. The right engine oil ensures the machine’s optimum efficiency. Always choose an oil from a brand that displays an indication that the oil has been tested by petroleum experts.

Engine Oil Properties

Of course, in choosing the right engine oil for your machine, you must consider its properties — whether it possesses certain physical and chemical properties or not. However, you must first understand and have the knowledge of several important oil properties, for you to choose an engine oil that can meet the particular service needs, conditions, and requirements.

Environmental Conditions

Several environmental conditions generally play important roles in choosing the right engine oil. The climate, whether you reside in a hot or cold one, affects the performance of the machine. This can influence and can put strain on certain engine parts, which may require you to change your engine oil frequently. Thus, when you are determining the right engine oil with the right quality, it is important to consider the environment you are in. This is to ensure optimal protection of the engine against anticipated wear, which can be caused by these external conditions.

Fuel Quality

It is true that the fuel quality is one of the most important factors in determining the right engine oil for your machine. It is measured by three key elements — the cleanliness of the fuel, the octane and cetane number, and the level of sulfur contained in the fuel. When the engine is running, it converts the sulfur into sulfuric acid. Thus, if the sulfur content is high, the level of sulfuric acid generated is high as well. As a result, the risk of engine failure could be greater as it might cause corrosion. This can be detrimental to the engine. 

Viscosity of the Engine Oil

The most important property of engine oil of all its physical and chemical qualities would be its viscosity. It is referred to as the fluid’s resistance to flow. In selecting the right engine oil, you must consider checking the viscosity grade, which is identified through codes with numbers and letters on the packaging. Actually, there are two numbers that define the engine oil viscosity. The first one ends with the letter W, which stands for Winter. This measurement is related to how the oil flows when it is cold. Then, the second number is defined by how an oil flows at normal operating temperatures.

Thin and low viscosity levels of the engine oil flow easier at colder temperatures. This means it also has the ability to protect the engine parts. However, with thick and high ones, they are typically better at maintaining the film strength. They hold the responsibility of protecting the engines at higher temperatures. Additionally, the oil has to be resistant to excessive thickening. It will be able to flow properly, to all the moving parts in your engine. Too much thickness can make it more difficult to start the engine.

Key Takeaway

Knowing the right kind of engine oil, given that it is of high quality, will certainly be effective in ensuring that the engine will run smoothly and properly at all times. You have to understand and consider its properties, certain environmental conditions that will determine whether it is appropriate for your machine or not, the quality of the fuel, and the viscosity of the engine oil you are about to purchase. This might be a difficult and a daunting process. But choosing the right one will extend engine life, and allow your machine to operate efficiently, in its full capacity.