Lowering oil viscosity is ‘not the answer’ 02 December 2013

Lowering oil viscosity is not enough to help meet increasingly stringent emissions targets. Instead, development of oil and driveline technology will deliver greater reward, according to oil producer Millers Oils.

Friction is the cause of 20% of an engine's carbon emissions, says the company, adding that innovative oil development will help to reduce this.

"Compatibility with changing, sensitive emissions technologies, smaller sump capacity, fewer and smaller crank bearings, high specific power output and increased low speed torque loads are just some of the areas that traditional oils struggle to address efficiently," says Martyn Mann, technical director for Millers Oils.

"The expectation of increased service intervals, hybrid drives and aggressive thermal environments necessitates thorough lubrication development, and manufacturers must resist the temptation of reducing oil viscosity," he adds.

The company says the challenge for oil developers is to reduce friction and increase durability, as downsized engines and alternative powertrains place more strain on traditional lubricants.

Author
Laura Cork

Related Companies
Millers Oils Ltd

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