It is useful for every car owner to be able to decipher the information placed on the labels of motor oils. When using a high-quality product, stable long-term operation of the internal combustion engine of a car is possible.
The characteristics of lubricants must comply with all declared data from manufacturers. Engine oils operate under constant high pressure over a wide temperature range. Therefore, they are subject to requirements of increased rigidity.
International norms
To facilitate the choice of lubricant for a car, it is recommended to use generally accepted classification principles:
- GOST.
- ILSAC.
- ACEA.
The most popular systems are GOST, API, ACEA.
Depending on the type of engine, lubricants are divided into gasoline and diesel. In addition, there is a universal type of lubricant. The packaging of the product contains information about the purpose of the liquid. All motor substances contain a mineral base and special additives in the required amount.
By chemical composition, lubricants are classified into:
- Mineral.
- Synthetic.
- Semi-synthetic.
Information about the belonging of a substance to a certain class is placed on the product label.
The packaging container with engine oil also informs about:
- additives present in the solution;
- barcode;
- density classification (SAE viscosity);
- advice from automakers;
- engine oil categories;
- lot number and release date.
API engine oil
The API classification of motor oils divides them by type in accordance with the following factors:
- Motor type.
- Operating mode of the internal combustion engine.
- Useful properties of oil.
- Date of commissioning.
Depending on the type of engine, engine oils are divided into categories "S" and "C". For petrol and diesel engines respectively.
Specification of engine oils according to API
API labeling begins with an "S" or "C" category. Then there is a sign that defines the class of motor fluid. This value depends on the level of useful characteristics.
Reading the API marking:
- EU - energy saving oil.
- Roman numerals - fuel economy.
- "C" - for diesel engines.
- "S" - for gasoline.
- Universal brands are indicated by symbols separated by a fraction (for example, APISL / CF).
- The letters after "S" or "C" indicate the degree of performance, they are in the range from A to N (the highest rating of the product).
- Diesel oils are 2-stroke and 4-stroke (at the end is 2 or 4, respectively).
After passing API and SAE checks and fixing their compliance with quality requirements, the original round sign with the corresponding inscriptions is put on the labels:
- top - APISERVISE;
- in the center - SAE indicating viscosity;
- below - the degree of energy saving.
API specification engine fluid improves wear resistance and reduces the risk of failure of a car's internal combustion engine. At the same time, the consumption of fuel and engine oil is also reduced, extraneous sounds in the engine disappear, and driving performance improves.
One of the main advantages is the stability of the power unit at sub-zero temperatures and the reduction of harmful emissions.
Types of lubricants according to SAE
The SAE table separates engine oils by density depending on the ambient temperature. The SAE table contains three types of lubricants that differ in their structure:
- Winter oils.
- Summer lubricants.
- All-weather types of oils.
Lubricants belonging to the first category have the most liquid consistency. This makes it easier to start the engine at low sub-zero temperatures outside the car. This type of lubricant is classified according to SAE with the letter W (5 W, 10 W, etc.).
Engine oils marked with the letter W are not recommended for use in the summer, because the too liquid consistency of this lubricant does not contribute to the formation of a lubricating film on the working surfaces of the parts of the power unit. A lubricating layer is not formed, useful functions are not performed.
Summer category oils are indicated for use at air temperatures above 0°C. Their level of viscosity is quite high. At high atmospheric temperatures, the fluidity of summer grades of lubricants makes it possible to effectively lubricate the working parts and components of an internal combustion engine.
Summer lubricants are not recommended for use in winter colds, high-viscosity oil will not allow the engine to start in frost. There are no letters in the marking of summer lubricants. The designation consists of bare numbers indicating the viscosity of the substance according to SAE (10, 15, etc.).
All seasons are the most popular. Among analogues, they are most in demand in the automotive market. All-weather engine oil is recommended for use in any weather at high and low ambient temperatures. They are dual SAE marked (eg SAE 10W-30).
Viscosity is decisive in the marking of the lubricating fluid. However, when choosing the right engine oil for your car, you must also take into account its other characteristics:
- influence on the wear resistance of parts;
- detergent properties;
- resistance against oxidative processes;
- anti-corrosion properties, etc.
Before buying a lubricant for your car, you need to take into account important factors that have a great influence on the stability of the power unit, as well as on the service life of its parts and assemblies.
This list of factors includes the following items:
- Which oil to choose according to the chemical composition - mineral, synthetic, semi-synthetic.
- Studying the requirements for the level of viscosity according to SAE (summer, winter, all-weather, viscosity tolerances).
- The presence of the necessary additives in accordance with the classifications of the API and ACEA systems.
- Determination of recommended makes and models of vehicles for the use of a particular lubricant (this information is contained on the product label).
- The study of additional parameters and tolerances of lubricating fluids (for example, the Longlife mark indicates its use in vehicles that have an extended period between service periods for a complete engine oil change).
- Some motor fluids are designed for use in power units equipped with intercoolers, turbocharging, adjustable valve lift, valve timing (timing), and a decrease in the temperature of recirculation gases.
API literally translates to American Fuel Institute. API employees certify and license new engine oils of all brands. They are also developing new state-of-the-art specifications and quality standards for lubricating fluids used in diesel and gasoline engines.
Base lubricants are also subject to rigorous analysis and testing.
Additional classifications to the API system
The division of modern lubricants only into diesel and gasoline is not enough. Technologies for the production of internal combustion engines are growing, in accordance with this, the requirements for oils are also increasing. API staff are working on creating new standards and specifications.
On their basis, organizations are being created to carry out licensing and certification of lubricants: ILSACGF, EnergyConserving (EC).
APISM requirements
In accordance with the requirements of the new specifications, APISM grade motor oils must meet the following additional requirements:
- ensuring resistance against wear of parts and assemblies of the power unit;
- extended time interval between complete oil changes;
- preservation of the declared useful properties and characteristics during the entire period of operation;
- resistance to oxidative processes;
- frost resistance of the lubricant.
APISN classification requirements
In connection with the advent of motors with various "bells and whistles", there are additional requirements for lubricants. APISN certified engine oils meet the following requirements:
- Energy saving, these lubricants are suitable for use in biofuel vehicles.
- Ensuring higher wear resistance of the power unit.
- Exhaust gas cleanliness.
- The safety of the sealing elements of the engine.
The last point indicates the concern of lubricant manufacturers for gaskets and seals in internal combustion engines. APISN requires manufacturers to control the engine, its components and parts, as well as the condition of rubber products installed in engines.
Class API SN in the API classification was put into effect in October 2010. Today, these are the latest (and therefore the most stringent) requirements that apply to manufacturers of motor oils for gasoline engines.
Why API SN classification is needed? What's new in the API SN class for the average car owner? How is API SN different from ? Let's figure it out quickly.
Why API SN classification?
The main reason for the emergence of the API SN class is the need to improve motor oils in general. Engine manufacturers are “winding up” motors more and more every day. It goes without saying that oils for such engines cannot be left unchanged. Hence the phenomenon of the API SN world.API SN certified engine oils are suitable for use in all current generation gasoline engines(do not forget about the manufacturer's tolerances defined for your car).
API SN requirements
Important in the emergence of the API SN class of the API classification can be noted the introduction of the following requirements
- motor oils licensed by API SN can be used in engines using biofuels
- API SN class obliges engine oils to be energy efficient
- API SN places additional demands on engine durability
- API SN motor oils should provide a "long and happy life" to emission control systems and an "environmentally friendly" exhaust 🙂
The distinguishing feature of API SN (compared to API SM) is compatibility with engine seals. More recently, the API classification did not particularly care about the preservation of oil seals and gaskets. Now everything is different. API SN refers to the control of engine RTI.
Latest interesting facts about API SN class. At the stand, which is directly responsible for testing engine oils (the same stand through which all engine oils must pass, fighting for the "honorary title" - API Service), they changed the test engine! Instead of the V-shaped Ford eight with a volume of 4.6 liters of 1993 (the king of the release 🙂), a 3.6-liter V-shaped six of 2008 from General Motors was introduced. This is news, of course! But the fact that API SN can replace all previous API classes (API SM, API SL, etc., etc.) is perhaps not news, but it is a fact.
Learn about ConocoPhillips engine oils meeting and exceeding API SN requirements on this blog (coming soon)
- Kendall. 5w30 GT-1 Full Synthetic Motor Oil with Liquid Titanium
- Kendall. Engine oil 10w30
- Super Synthetic Blend Motor Oil 10w30
- 10w40 for athletes
- 10w40 semi-synthetic for used cars
September 18th, 2016 
Admin
All car owners need to be able to understand motor oils, be able to read the information hidden in the markings written on the label. Proper selection and use of a good quality product gives you a guarantee for a stable and long service life of your car engine. The properties of the lubricating product must meet all the conditions of the manufacturer. The operation of oils takes place under high pressure and in a wide temperature range, for this reason such stringent requirements are put forward for them.
To simplify the process of selecting oil for a particular type of engine according to the necessary characteristics and required conditions, several types of international standards have been developed. Global oil manufacturers use all recognized classifications.
Classification of automotive engine oils:
- ILSAC;
- GOST;
- ACEA.
Most often, 3 types of classification are used - API, GOST and ACEA.
There are 2 main categories of motor oils tied to the type of engine: diesel or gasoline. There is also a universal oil. The packaging must contain information on the purpose of the product. The composition of each engine oil includes mineral oil, which makes up the main part of it, and the required amount of additives.
Lubricating fluid is divided by chemical composition into:
- Synthetic.
- Mineral.
- Semi-synthetic.
On the container, next to other information, the chemical composition is always written.
What can be written on an oil canister:
- API and ACEA additives present.
- SAE density classification (viscosity).
- Barcode.
- Recommendations from car manufacturers.
- Specialist. categories of motor oils.
- Date of manufacture and lot number.
- Pseudonymous labeling (has nothing to do with standard labeling, is part of marketing, for example, fully synthetic and the like).
To find out which oil is ideal for your car's engine, we will help you understand the more significant markings.
SAE engine oil classification: table
The main properties that are indicated in the markings on the product packaging are density parameters according to the SAE classification - international standards for adjustable viscosity of oils depending on seasonal changes in air temperature.
Because of this, oils are divided into 3 types, which differ in their structure:
- winter oils more liquid and allow you to easily start the car engine at low air temperatures. This type of SAE indicator is indicated by the symbol "W" (for example, 0W, 5W, 10W, and so on). In order to find out the limit value, the number 35 should be subtracted. At positive air temperatures, such an oil is not suitable for use, since it becomes too liquid in structure and cannot form a lubricating layer, i.e. will not fulfill its intended function.
- summer oils are used at air temperatures from 0˚ and above, since their viscosity is quite high so that at high temperatures the fluidity does not exceed the required indicator for effective lubrication of motor parts. In winter, it will not be possible to start the engine with high viscosity oil. Summer oils are marked with a numerical designation without letters (for example, 5,10,15, etc.; a larger number means a stronger viscosity).
- Multigrade oils are the most popular because of the ability to carry out the functions of their destination both in the cold and in the warm season. The limit values \u200b\u200bof such oils can be viewed in the diagram, where the SAE indicators are deciphered. This type of oil is indicated by a double marking (for example, SAE 15W-40).
The viscosity characteristic is the very first and most significant component of the marking and specification of a lubricating fluid, but there are others. Making a choice of lubricating fluid using only viscosity data is wrong. It is also necessary to take into account the relationship between the properties of the product and the conditions of its use.
All oils have not only viscosity, but also many other different performance properties (anti-wear, detergent and antioxidant properties, corrosiveness, and others). These properties make it possible to determine the scope of their assignment.
API classification of motor oils: table
The main indicators in the classification according to API are: the type of engine and its mode of operation, the operating properties of the oil and the year of commissioning. Oils are divided according to the standard into 2 categories:
- Category "S" - for engines running on gasoline.
- Category "C" - designed for a diesel engine.
How to decipher the API engine oil label?
The API designation may begin with the letter "C" or "S". They indicate for which type of engine the oil is intended. The next letter defines the product class, which indicates the level of active properties.
According to this classification, the explanation of the marking of motor oils looks like this:
- The abbreviated EU designation, located immediately after the API, indicates energy-saving oils.
- Behind the abbreviation, indicating Roman numerals carry information about the level of fuel economy.
- The letter "C" defines oils for engines running on diesel fuel.
- The letter "S" denotes oils for gasoline engines.
- Multipurpose oils are marked with letters of both categories through a slash (e.g. API SL/CF).
- After the letters "S" or "C" indicate the degree of performance, it is indicated by letters from "A" (the smallest indicator) to "N", etc. (the higher in alphabetical order the value of the 2nd letter, the higher the product class).
- For diesel engines, API marking oils are divided into two-stroke and four-stroke (indicated at the end by the number "2" or "4", respectively).
Engine oils that have passed a series of SAE/API checks and meet current grade quality standards are identified as a round symbol on labels. At the top of the sign is the designation - "API Service", in the central part - the degree of viscosity according to SAE, below - the degree of energy saving (if any).
Using motor oils of the required specification, you increase wear resistance and reduce the risk of engine breakdown. At the same time, fuel consumption and oil waste are reduced, the engine runs quieter, and its driving performance improves (especially at cold temperatures), the exhaust purification system and catalyst wear out less.
Classifications ILSAC, GOST, ACEA - what does it mean and how to decipher
Classification and designation of engine oils according to ILSAC
Joint development of America and Japan - ILSAC classification. The International Committee for Standardization and Testing has developed 5 lubricating fluid standards:
- ILSAC GF-1,
- ILSAC GF-2,
- ILSAC GF-3,
- ILSAC GF-4,
- ILSAC GF-5.
They are similar to API grades and differ only in that the corresponding oils of the ILSAC classification are energy efficient and versatile in all seasons. This classification is the best option for Japanese cars.
Classification and designation of motor oils according to GOST
In accordance with GOST 17479.1-85, engine oils are divided into:
- groups by active properties;
- kinematic viscosity category.
By viscosity, oils are divided into the following classes:
- Winter period of the year - 3, 4, 5, 6.
- Summer period of the year - 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 20, 24.
- Universal - 3/8, 4/6, 4/8, 4/10, 5/10, ... .6/16 (the 1st digit indicates the winter class, and the 2nd - summer).
The larger the numerical designation in all the classes described above, the higher the level of viscosity.
Engine oils are divided into 6 groups according to the area of \u200b\u200buse and are marked with letters from "A" to "E".
Oils with a digital indicator of "1" indicate their intended use in gasoline engines, "2" - for diesel engines, and the absence of a digital indicator indicates the versatility of the fluid.
Classification and designation of motor oils according to ACEA
The association of car manufacturers of European countries has developed the ACEA classification. It marks their categories and purpose, as well as the performance properties of engine oils. This specification is also divided by application in gasoline and diesel engine types.
The latest standards divide oils into 3 varieties and 12 groups:
- А/В – diesel and petrol engines of passenger cars, minibuses and vans (А1/В1-12, А5/В5-12, etc.)
- C - diesel and gasoline engines with a catalytic converter (C1-12 .... C4-12).
- E - trucks with a diesel engine (E4-12 .... E9-12).
In addition to the classification of engine oil, the ACEA marking indicates the edition number (updates of technical requirements) and the year of commissioning. Domestic oils are additionally certified by GOST.
Oil groups in the ILSAC category, their compliance with API standards:
- ILSAC GF-1 (obsolete category) - oil quality similar to API SH classification; according to viscosity SAE 0W-20, 5W-35, 10W-40.
- ILSAC GF-2 - similar in product quality to API SJ, in terms of density SAE 0W-20, 5W-25.
- ILSAC GF-3 - corresponds to the API SL variety, entered service in 2001.
- ILSAC GF-4 and ILSAC GF-5 are similar to SM and SN.
Also, in accordance with the ILSAC standard for Japanese cars with turbocharged diesel engines, the JASO DX-1 category has been developed. This oil marking is designed for engines of new cars with high environmental standards and built-in turbines.
Specifications and approvals of motor oils
The ACEA and API specifications express the minimum basic requirements adopted by additive and oil manufacturers and vehicle manufacturers. The characteristics of the oil during operation are different, since different brands of cars have motors arranged differently. Some of the leading engine manufacturers have created their own personal oil classification method (simplified name - tolerance), which adds to the ACEA classification system. Engine manufacturers such as: BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Renault, Ford, Fiat, GM - preferably use personal approvals when choosing engine oils.
Let's look at the more well-known and more commonly used tolerances that are indicated on the container of motor oils.
Engine oil approvals for VAG
Engine oil - VW 500.00 - energy saving (SAE 10W-30, 5W-30, 5W-40, etc.) For gasoline engines (up to year 2000), VW 501.01 is calculated - suitable for any seasonal period. VW 502.00 - intended for use in turbocharged engines.
Oil for engines running on gasoline with a viscosity of SAE 0W-30 - VW 503.00 - requiring a rarer change (up to 30,000 kilometers). For a car engine with an exhaust system with a three-way converter - VW 504.00.
The approval of VW 505.00 oils for TDI engines is provided for cars such as AUDI, VOLKSWAGEN, SKODA running on diesel (until 2000). PDE motors with a pump injector - oils with a VW 505.01 approval.
For vehicles running on diesel fuel (manufactured after 2002), an energy-saving oil with a viscosity of 0W-30 - VW 506.00 is recommended - more rarely needs replacement (up to 50,000 kilometers in 4-cylinder TDI engines). For engines running on diesel fuel with a pump-injector and turbocharged PD-TDI, approval VW506.01 is an oil that rarely requires replacement.
Engine oil approvals for Mercedes
Manufacturers of MERCEDES-BENZ cars also have personal permits. Permission MB 229.1 designates oil for MERCEDES engines running on gasoline and diesel, put into production since 1997. Permission MB 229.31, limiting the content of phosphorus and sulfur, introduced later, is consistent with SAE 0W and SAE 5W. Multifunctional oil for engines running on both gasoline and diesel fuel with an extended service life, as well as energy saving, has the approval of MB 229.5.
Engine oil approvals for BMW (BMW)
For cars manufactured since 1998, it is proposed to use oils with the approval designation "BMW Long life-98", which comply with ACEA A3 / B3 standards, with an extended service life. "BMW Long life-01" - oil approval, recommended for car engines produced at the end of 2001. With increased engine load in difficult conditions, it is recommended to use oils with a BMW Long life-01 FE approval. In modern BMW cars, engine oils with a BMW Long life-04 approval are used.
Engine oil approvals for Renault
In 2007, RENAULT manufacturers developed tolerances that meet the main ACEA requirements:
- Renault RN0700 - ACEA A3 / B4 or ACEA A5 / B5.
- Renault RN0710 complies with ACEA A3/B4 conditions.
- Renault RN0720 complies with ACEA C3 conditions (some accessories from Renault).
- The RN0720 approval was created for use in modern vehicles running on diesel fuel with a particulate filter.
Engine oil approvals for Ford (FORD)
Ford approved WSS-M2C913-A grade SAE 5W-30 engine oil is calculated for initial use and subsequent replacement. Such an oil meets all the requirements and standards for the following classifications: ACEA A1-98, ILSAC GF-2 and additional Ford requirements.
The oil, which has Ford M2C913-B approval, meets the required ACEA A1-98 and B1-98, ILSAC GF-2 and ILSAC GF-3 standards, is recommended for initial use and subsequent replacement in cars with diesel and gasoline engines.
In 2012, the Ford WSS-M2C913-D approval was developed and introduced. Engine oils with this rating are available for all Ford diesel vehicles. Exceptions are Ford Ka TDCi models put into production before 2009, and engines manufactured from 2000 to 2006. The approval provides for an extended oil life and refueling with high sulfur fuel or bio-diesel fuel.
Ford WSS-M2C934-A approved engine oil is designed for an extended operating period and is intended for use in vehicles with a diesel engine and a diesel particulate filter (DPF). Oil that meets Ford WSS-M2S948-B approval meets ACEA C2 classification standards (for diesel and gasoline engines with a catalyst). The presence of this tolerance indicates that the viscosity of the oil corresponds to SAE 5W-20 with reduced soot formation.
When choosing engine oil, consider the following:
- The choice of the appropriate chemical composition of the oil - synthetic, semi-synthetic or mineral.
- SAE viscosity classification standards (winter, summer or universal).
- A set of additives that meets the requirements (formulated in ACEA and API classifications).
- Pay attention to which car brands the product is intended for (this information can be seen on the container label).
- It is important not to lose sight of additional indicators and oil tolerances (for example, the Long life designation indicates that the oil is suitable for use in vehicles with an extended replacement service life).
- In the features of some compositions, it is possible to determine a combination with engines that have an intercooler, turbocharging, valve lift adjustment, timing phases and recirculation gas cooling.
Lubricants began to be used long before our era. And if earlier vegetable fats and fats of animal origin were used as them, then starting from the 60s of the last century they were replaced by refined products. After that, the active development and improvement of motor oils began, and about 70 years ago, the first polymeric viscosity modifiers appeared, thanks to which different classes and varieties soon appeared in motor oils, corresponding to the temperature regime of a certain season, and all-weather types of lubricants appeared.
Since that moment, the composition and technical qualities of oils have undergone many changes, but their main purpose has remained unchanged. Engine oil is designed to cover moving parts with a thin, but at the same time strong, film, thereby protecting them from friction between themselves.
To date, there are several oil classification systems that allow you to classify lubricants according to their performance, technical characteristics, and purpose. Among the main generally accepted systems, one of the most famous is the API classification of motor oils. It was introduced at the end of the 50s of our century by the American Petroleum Institute, and the fundamental principle in it is the classification into two categories - S and C, that is, for gasoline and diesel engines, respectively.
S and C oil specifications
As noted above, the API system involves a division into two main categories, but there is also a third designation for the quality of lubricants. Of these, each type is independent:
All of these standards are identified by a two-letter suffix, such as SN, SM, SH, SG, CF, CI, where the second value is the performance level. At the same time, the closer to the end of the Latin alphabet is the letter in the designation, the higher the oil level according to API. For example, a product designation such as API SL, SM, or SN indicates superiority over API SF.
Gasoline engines: quality classes, their designations and decoding
| Group | Description |
|---|---|
| SN | SN lubricants differ from previous SM specifications in that they contain much less phosphorus, which gives them additional energy saving qualities and makes SN compatible with the latest exhaust gas aftertreatment systems. The SN class was approved in the fall of 2010 and is used in the engines of the most modern cars. It should be noted that oils with the API SN specification are close in their characteristics to ACEA C2, C3, C4, so SN can successfully replace SM class grease. |
| SM | SM was first introduced at the end of 2004. This class is more common today than CN, because it is intended for modern gasoline engines, including multi-valve and turbocharged engines. The lubricant of this category was developed taking into account the improvement of engines, therefore it is designed to increase their environmental safety and be more wear resistant. SM differs from the previous category SL in greater oxidation resistance and excellent protective properties against the formation of sludge and deposits, which certainly affects the high quality of lubricants. Two years after the release of SM, a category of oils for diesel engines was developed with the designation CJ4. SM specification products are designed for cars from 2004 and are designed specifically for them. |
| SL | The SL class was developed shortly before the release of SM and SN. It has been developed for car engines manufactured since 2001 and absolutely meets all modern standards and requirements, including high environmental friendliness and energy saving. SL are designed for modern engines, including multi-valve, turbocharged and engines adapted to run on lean fuel mixtures. Lubricants of the SL group may well be used by engines for which products of the SJ category are intended. Thanks to properties such as low volatility, SLs are distinguished by their long-term retention of their qualities, due to which the engine oil change interval is noticeably extended. To date, this category is valid and is widely used by modern car owners. |
| SJ | This class is also active today. It was approved in November 1995, although the product was certified only a year later. Therefore, SJ category oils are used for cars with a gasoline engine, starting in 1996. They are successfully used in the engines of cars and sports cars, as well as in the engines of minibuses and small trucks. SJ shows good technical characteristics, including resistance to the formation of deposits and deposits, as well as the ability to maintain its properties at low temperatures. According to these properties, SJ category oils are very close to SH class products, therefore they are quite suitable for use when the automaker recommends the use of SH category oils for a car. |
| SH | This category was created in 1992 and is considered conditionally valid. Oils included in this group are used in car engines manufactured in 1996 and earlier. In terms of its qualities, this class surpasses SG category oils, because it was developed to replace it. Therefore, SH class oils are successfully used for vehicles in which SG is recommended. |
| SG | Class SG is for motors manufactured in 1193 and earlier. Oils in this category are distinguished by excellent protection against carbon deposits and are resistant to oxidation and corrosion processes. SG oils meet all the requirements for engine oils intended for API CC diesel engines, which means SG can be used for machines in which the manufacturer recommends the use of categories SF and SF / CC, as well as SE and SE / CC. |
Specification of oils for diesel engines
Among modern engine oil specifications, CI and CF oils are the most popular. They are designed taking into account all the features of modern diesel engines and meet all standards.
| CI | Category CI -4 approved in 2002. They are designed for various diesel engines, CI specification products have high oxidation stability and contain dispersant additives. CIs are quite environmentally friendly compared to previous classes of oils. It is worth noting that another class is distinguished from the general CI category - CI -4 PLUS. The improved CI -4Plus grade is developed to meet the stringent requirements for oil volatility, oxidation at elevated temperatures and carbon deposits. |
| CF | The CF specification was created for diesel engines with indirect injection. They are distinguished by a high content of various additives that prevent deposits on pistons, as well as protect against wear and corrosion of internal parts with copper content, such as bearings. The CF class can be designated CF-4 and CF-2, which means motor oils intended for use in four-stroke and two-stroke (respectively) diesel engines. At the same time, CF-4s are designed for engines operating in accelerated mode, and CF-2s are ideal for engines that are constantly subjected to increased loads. |
API Classifications Video
Classification of motor oils API(American Petroleum Institute) is widely recognized as setting minimum performance standards and quality levels for gasoline and diesel engine oils. This classification has been significantly improved as the requirements for the quality of lubricants have increased, which, in turn, was caused by a significant improvement in engine technology, which also entailed an increase in the power of engines of these sizes, an improvement in the quality of the metal from which engine parts are made and an increase in mechanical strength, as well as, of course, an increase in operational loads.
Engine oils for gasoline engines are designated in this classification by the letter S (service station), and the categories range from (light duty oils with little or no additives) to the most recent category (oils for today's powerful, multi-valve engines, often turbo and supercharged). Oils for diesel engines differ in a similar range of categories, where the name of the category begins with the letter C (commercial). This includes categories from to . These are oils designed to work in the latest diesel engines and under modern operating conditions.
Below is a brief description of each category in their evolutionary development in terms of the American Petroleum Institute's engine oil service classifications. In cases where there is an "obsolete category" mark, this means that this category has been replaced by a new category.
Performance standards API are specified using the abbreviations API SJ and API CE:
. the first letter indicates the type of engine (S = petrol and C = diesel)
. the second letter indicates the performance level, and the lower the performance level, the higher the letter in the alphabet.
PETROL ENGINES
API
SG
Oils for use in gasoline engines in 1989. For use in gasoline engines of modern passenger cars, vans and light trucks maintained in accordance with the manufacturer's recommended procedures. Oils designed for this application provide improved protection against engine deposits, oil oxidation and engine wear over previous categories, as well as protection against rust and corrosion. Oils of category SG meet the requirements for operation in diesel engines and can be used where categories , , SF / CC or SE / CC are recommended.
API
SH
Oils for use in gasoline engines in 1994. The category was adopted in 1992 to define the characteristics of motor oils recommended since 1993. For normal use in gasoline engines of today's fleet of cars, vans and light trucks, serviced according to the recommendations and instructions of the manufacturers. This category exceeds the requirements of the category and was developed to replace it to improve anti-carbon, antioxidant, anti-wear qualities of oils and protect against rust and corrosion. Oils in this category that meet API SH requirements have been tested in accordance with the requirements of the Chemical Manufacturers Association (CMA). The product is approved by the Code of Practice and can be used according to API recommendations for base oil interchangeability and viscosity grade performance testing. Oils in this category may be used where the category and earlier categories are recommended.
API
SJ
Oils for use in gasoline engines in 1996. The API SJ performance category characterizes engine oils sold on the market since 1996. SJ includes the same minimum ratings as SH, which it must replace, as well as additional requirements for control of carbon formation and operation at low temperatures during bench tests. Oils in this category are designed for general use in gasoline engines of modern and older cars, sports cars, vehicles, vans and light trucks, serviced according to the manufacturer's recommendations and instructions. Oils meeting the requirements of API SJ may be used where the category and earlier categories are recommended.
API
SL
Oils for engines of vehicles manufactured after 2000. For multi-valve, turbocharged, lean-burn, with increased requirements for energy saving and environmental friendliness. Oils meeting the requirements of API SL, SM may be used where the category and earlier categories are recommended.
API
SM
The category was approved on November 30, 2004. In addition to the SL category, the anti-oxidation and anti-wear properties are improved. Improved low temperature properties. Possibility of certification under the category of energy saving ILSAC.
API
SN
The category was approved on October 1, 2010. Designed for oils used in the most modern gasoline engines of passenger cars, sports cars and small vans. Oils in this category have improved antioxidant and detergent properties, provide high protection against wear and corrosion. Enhanced high temperature properties for use in turbocharged engines. Can be used where SM and SL oils are recommended. Some oils in this category may meet the ILSAC GF-5 specification and qualify as energy efficient.
EU API
Energy Efficiency Classifications for Gasoline - EU 1995. There are two grades that define the category of gasoline engine oil designed to improve fuel economy. TESU stands for oils that improve fuel economy in standard tests by at least 1.5% compared to conventional oils, and TEC-IIY by at least 2.5%
DIESEL ENGINES
API CE
Oils for use in diesel engines 1983 (obsolete category). For use in certain heavy duty turbocharged, post-compressed engines manufactured since 1983 operating under heavy loads at both low and high speeds. They can also be used in conditions for which category oils are recommended.
API CF
Used in diesel engines with indirect injection - CF 1994. Typical use for diesel engines with indirect injection, as well as other types of diesel engines using various types of fuel, including those with a high sulfur content (for example, more than 0.5% by weight ). CF oils are effective in preventing piston deposits, wear and corrosion of bearings containing copper, which are of great importance in these types of engines, and can be drawn in in the usual way, supplied by a turbocharger or supercharger. Oils in this technical category may be used instead of oils.
API CF-4
1990 Diesel Engine Oils For typical 4-stroke diesel applications operating at high speeds where requirements exceed category capability and require use in place of CE category oils. Provides improved oil consumption and protection against piston deposits. In particular, they are effective in diesel engines of powerful tractors and vehicles on the highway. In combination with the appropriate category, they can be used in gasoline engines if recommended by the manufacturer.
API CF-2
Used in Heavy Duty 2-Stroke Diesel Engines - CF-2 1994. Typical use for 2-stroke engines requiring highly effective prevention of cylinder and ring wear and deposits. has improved performance and can be used instead of other materials if necessary.
API CG-4
The category was introduced in 1995. Oils are designed for heavy-duty, high-speed, four-stroke diesel engines of main-line type trucks using fuel with a sulfur content of less than 0.05% by weight and non-main-line type (sulfur content can reach 0.5% by weight). Effectively suppress the formation of high-temperature soot on pistons, wear, foaming, oxidation, soot formation (these properties are necessary for engines of new mainline tractors and buses). The category was created to meet the requirements of the US Emissions Standards (Revision 1994). Replaces oils of categories , and . The main disadvantage that limits the use of oils of this category in the world is the relatively large dependence of the oil resource on the quality of the fuel used.
API CH-4
The category was introduced on December 1, 1998. Oils in this category are designed for high-speed, four-stroke engines that meet the stringent 1998 emission standards. They meet the highest requirements of not only American, but also European manufacturers of diesel engines. Specially formulated for use in engines using fuels with sulfur content up to 0.5% by weight. Unlike the category, the use of diesel fuel with a sulfur content of more than 0.5% is allowed, which is an important advantage in countries where high-sulfur fuels are common (South America, Asia, Africa). Oils meet the increased requirements for reducing valve wear and reducing carbon deposits. Replace oils of categories , , and .
API CI-4
Category introduced since 2002 .
The oil corresponding to this level has higher dispersing properties (the amount of detergent-dispersant additives), has an increased resistance to thermal oxidation compared to the class , provides a reduction in oil consumption for waste due to a decrease in volatility and a decrease in evaporation losses under the influence of gases at an operating temperature of 370 °C Improved cold pumpability, extended life of engine seals due to improved oil compatibility with seals. The class was introduced taking into account the tightening of requirements for the environmental performance of engines produced from October 1, 2002.
API CI-4PLUS
Service category for diesel engines with more stringent soot requirements. Upon receipt of this classification, engine oil is tested in 17 engine tests.
API GL-3
Oils for gears operating under moderate conditions. Contains up to 2.7% anti-wear additives. Designed for lubrication of conical and other gears of trucks. Not designed for hypoid gears.
API GL-4
Oils for gears operating in conditions of varying severity - from light to heavy. Contains 4.0% effective extreme pressure additives. Designed for bevel and hypoid gears with small axle displacement, for gearboxes of trucks, for drive axle units. API GL-4 oils are designed for non-synchronized transmissions of North American trucks, tractors and buses (commercial vehicles), for final drives and other gears of all motor vehicles. Currently, these oils are also the main oils for synchronized gears, especially in Europe. In this case, the label or data sheet of the oil must contain inscriptions about this purpose and confirmation of compliance with the requirements of the machine manufacturers.
API GL-5
Oils for the busiest gears operating in harsh conditions. Contains up to 6.5% effective extreme pressure and other multifunctional additives. The main purpose is for hypoid gears with a significant axle offset. They are used as universal oils for all other mechanical transmission units (except for the gearbox). For a synchronized manual transmission, only oils that have a special confirmation of compliance with the requirements of machine manufacturers are used. Can be used for limited slip differential if they meet the requirements of the specifications MIL-L-2105D(in the US) or ZF TE-ML-05(in Europe). Then the class designation has additional characters, for example, API GL-5+ or API GL-5 SL. Oils for the most loaded gears operating in very difficult conditions (high sliding speeds and significant shock loads). Contains up to 10% high performance extreme pressure additives. Designed for hypoid gears with significant axle offset. Correspond to the highest level of operational properties.
API MT-1
Oils for highly loaded units. Designed for non-synchronized manual transmissions of powerful commercial vehicles (tractors and buses). Equivalent to oils, but with increased thermal stability.
API PG-2
Oils for transmissions of driving axles of powerful commercial vehicles (tractors and buses) and mobile equipment. Equivalent to oils, but with improved thermal stability and improved elastomer compatibility.
For mechanical gearboxes (except hypoid ones), oils and are mainly used; for hypoid final drive: API GL-4 - for medium loaded gears and API GL-5 - for heavily loaded gears, including hypoid gears with significant axle offset. Oil companies produce universal oils designed both for gearboxes with synchronizers and for heavily loaded hypoid gears.
