First, Fuchs Lubricants has released a new engine oil for the latest Mercedes-Benz commercial vehicles. Titan Cargo 228.61 SAE 5W-30 is the first of the manufacturer’s products to meet
the API FA-4 specification required for new Mercedes trucks and buses. The new HD specification was said to have been produced to help with fuel economy.
Second, BP and Castrol have renewed their 17-year global strategic partnership agreement with Volkswagen group (including its light commercial vehicles range) for fuels and lubricants supply. No details have yet been released about a newly engineered, jointly branded Castrol-Volkswagen engine oil, except that it will be launched “soon”. A press release said: “As technology partners, the two companies will continue their close collaboration in joint research and development to improve fuel efficiency and generate innovative future mobility solutions.”
Third, the maker of the Exocet brand of diesel and petrol fuel additives for commercial vehicles and other sectors has been purchased by Millers Oils. The company, Fuel Additive Science Technologies, previously a supplier to Millers Oils, will continue to operate as a wholly-owned subsidiary. The new owner said: “It is anticipated that the company’s strong R&D commitment will help further develop the brand through the introduction of new innovative products, designed to meet a variety of new stringent applications that will be driven by legislation.”
Fourth, loader crane manufacturer Hiab, part of Cargotec, has launched a new oil tank design that uses fluid dynamics to reduce oil usage, weight, space and running costs. The tank uses a cyclone system to remove air from the hydraulic oil returning to the tank. The technology allows oil to be circulated and filtered more often, so that the size of the tank can be significantly reduced (by two thirds). This means that the volume of oil required is also significantly reduced, plus the slight over-pressure in the system’s outlet prevents cavitation in the oil pump, leading to a longer operational lifetime for the pump, oil and hydraulic system.
Finally, Fuchs has integrated a tap into its Lube Cube eco-friendly packaging. Introduced five years ago, this saw 20l of motor oil held in a plastic bag encased in cardboard outer. With the new tap, the oil can now be dispensed instantly, rather than having to stand the carton upright, remove the screw cap and then add the tap.