Frequently Asked Questions

The generally accepted viscosity classification system for motor oils is the SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) system.

The SAE system divides oils into two main groups:

• summer (with a numeric index, for example, SAE 30, SAE 40);
• winter (with a W index and a numeric index, for example, SAE 0W, 5W, 10W, 15W, 20W).

The most common today are all-season oils that combine the properties of summer and winter oils. They have a combined marking, for example, SAE 5W-30 or SAE 10W-40.

The first digit (with the W index) indicates low–temperature properties (fluidity at cold start), and the second digit indicates high-temperature properties (viscosity at engine operating temperature).

The main difference lies in the base oil, which forms the basis of the product.

Mineral oil is the cheapest, it is usually used in old cars or with low mileage. It lubricates well, but quickly loses its properties. It is better to change it more often. Mineral oils are produced by distillation of petroleum and subsequent purification. They are usually cheaper, but have less stable characteristics and are more susceptible to oxidation and sedimentation.

Semi-synthetic oils are a mixture of mineral and synthetic bases. They combine the advantages of both types: improved low-temperature properties and stability compared to mineral oils, while remaining more affordable than fully synthetic ones.

Synthetic oils are created by chemical synthesis, which makes it possible to obtain a product with excellent performance characteristics: high thermal stability, excellent fluidity at low temperatures, increased resistance to oxidation and minimal formation of deposits. Fully synthetic oil is the most modern and expensive, it is excellent for new or heavy—duty applications because it protects the engine well even at high temperatures.

In summer, the oil heats up, it works better at high temperatures, helps the engine not to overheat. The consistency of summer oils is usually more viscous and tolerates high temperatures better, ensuring optimal engine lubrication, reducing friction and wear, improving efficiency and protecting against overheating.

In winter, the oil becomes thicker and circulates worse through the engine. Therefore, in cold weather, it is better to use synthetic low-viscosity oils so that it is easier for the starter to start the engine, and the oil quickly reaches all the parts.

It is recommended to use all-season engine oils for most modern passenger cars. Their labeling, for example, 5W-30 or 10W-40, indicates their suitability for use in both summer and winter.

All-season oils have optimal properties for cold start in winter and reliable engine protection at high summer temperatures.

For regions with extremely low winter temperatures or very hot summers, the use of oils with a wider temperature range may be justified. For example, in conditions of severe frosts, it is advisable to choose an oil with an index of 0W or 5W, and in hot climates – with a higher second numeric index (for example, XXW-40 XXW-50).

Always follow the recommendations of your car’s manufacturer as listed in the owner’s manual.

Modern engines, especially those with turbocharging and direct injection, operate in harsher conditions.: at high temperatures and high pressure. This places increased demands on engine oil.

For such engines, synthetic or high-quality semi-synthetic oils with a viscosity corresponding to the specifications of the automaker are usually recommended (often 0W-20, 5W-30, 5W-40). These oils have excellent thermal stability, oxidation resistance and the ability to maintain the required viscosity under pressure, providing reliable protection against wear and deposits.

Operating conditions play a significant role in the selection of engine oil. The urban cycle with frequent starts and stops, idling and short runs leads to accelerated oil oxidation and sediment formation. For such conditions, oils with improved detergent and antioxidant properties are preferred.

Highway operation, on the contrary, is characterized by prolonged engine operation at high speeds and stable temperatures. High temperature resistance and the ability of the oil to maintain its viscosity characteristics are important here. When driving off-road, especially in conditions of high dust and humidity, the load on the engine and oil also increases, so good filtration properties and resistance to contamination are important.

Diesel engines have their own characteristics that require the use of specialized motor oils. They are usually characterized by a high content of sulphated ash, phosphorus and sulfur, which is necessary to neutralize the combustion products of diesel fuel and protect the engine from corrosion and wear.

API specifications such as CH-4, CI-4, CJ-4, and ACEA E4, E6, E7, and E9 are specifically designed for diesel engines. The choice of a specific oil depends on the type of diesel engine (with or without turbocharging, with or without a particulate filter), its environmental class and the recommendations of the car manufacturer.

An automobile oil approval is a certificate of conformity issued by an automaker or an international organization (such as API or ACEA) that confirms that a given engine oil has passed all the necessary tests and meets the strict requirements for lubricants for specific engine models.

Automakers develop their own tolerances based on design features, materials, engine systems (for example, exhaust toxicity reduction systems, turbocharging, direct injection systems), as well as recommendations for replacement intervals.

The main purpose of the tolerances is to ensure that the oil used will provide optimal engine wear protection, efficient cooling, clean internal parts, proper operation of exhaust gas neutralization systems, and maintain specified replacement intervals.

The use of oil with the appropriate tolerance is the key to the durability of the engine, its stable operation and compliance with environmental standards.

There are two main international classifications that serve as the basis for many car manufacturers’ approvals.:

• API (American Petroleum Institute);
• ACEA (European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association).

API (American Petroleum Institute). This classification mainly focuses on the performance properties of the oil, determining its suitability for gasoline and diesel engines.

For gasoline engines. It is indicated by the letter “S” (Service) followed by a letter indicating the oil generation (for example, API SA, SB, SC… up to modern API SP).

Each new generation is more advanced and has better engine protection, cleaner parts, and compatibility with modern systems.

For diesel engines. It is indicated by the letter “C” (Commercial) followed by a letter (for example, API CA, CB… before modern API CK-4).

Universal oils. They can have a combined designation, for example, API SN/CF, where SN is for gasoline, CF is for diesel.

ACEA (European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association). This European classification is stricter, it is focused on real-world operating conditions, as well as on the requirements of European automakers.

ACEA divides the oils into categories:

• A/B. For gasoline and diesel engines of passenger cars (for example, ACEA A3/B4).
• C. For gasoline and diesel engines with exhaust gas neutralization systems (Low SAPS – with a reduced content of sulphated ash, phosphorus and sulfur), for example, ACEA C3.
• E. For diesel engines of heavy machinery (trucks). ACEA takes into account aspects such as anti-wear properties, piston cleanliness, fuel economy, and compatibility with diesel particulate filters (DPF) and catalytic converters.

OEM approvals (Original Equipment Manufacturer) are specific standards developed directly by automakers (such as Volkswagen, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Ford, GM, Toyota, etc.). These tolerances are much more detailed than the general API and ACEA classifications, and they take into account the unique features of specific engines, materials, technologies, and systems used by the automaker. For example, the MB 229.5 tolerance from Mercedes-Benz has its own specific requirements for replacement intervals, energy-saving properties, anti-wear characteristics, and compatibility with vehicle systems.

Oil manufacturers conduct additional tests of their products in order to obtain approval (approval) from car manufacturers. The presence of such an approval on the oil packaging is a guarantee that it fully meets the requirements of the manufacturer of your car and will be safe for the engine. Using oil with the correct OEM approval is the best way to maintain factory warranty obligations and ensure optimal engine performance.

The most reliable and accurate way to find out what oil tolerances are required for your vehicle is to consult the operation manual (service book). Car manufacturers clearly indicate the recommended viscosity grades (for example, 5W-30, 5W-40), as well as specific tolerances (API, ACEA and OEM approvals) that the engine oil must meet.

If you do not have a service book, you can find this information on the automaker’s official website, in specialized online catalogs, or contact your car’s authorized dealer. It is important to remember that even if the oil meets the general classification API or ACEA, it may not meet the specific requirements of a particular automaker. Therefore, always check the OEM approval if it is specified in the manual.

Automotive oil tolerances are not a formality, but a critical indicator that guarantees oil compatibility with your engine and ensures its long–lasting and trouble-free operation. Using oil with the correct tolerances specified by the automaker is the key to the health of your engine, maintaining the warranty and saving on expensive repairs in the future.

Always pay attention to the markings on the canister and choose only proven oils that meet the requirements of your vehicle.

Industrial oils are lubricants designed specifically for use in industrial equipment. They are designed for a wide range of applications beyond simple lubrication.

The main functions of industrial oils include:

• Lubricant. Reduction of friction and wear between moving parts of the equipment (for example, in bearings, gears, guides). This is the most obvious and fundamental function that prevents premature failure of parts.
• Cooling. Many industrial oils remove heat from areas of intense friction and heating, preventing overheating of equipment components.
• Clearing. The oils carry with them the products of wear, dirt and carbon deposits, keeping them suspended until the oil is changed or filtered.
• Corrosion protection. Industrial oils form a protective layer on metal surfaces, preventing their contact with moisture and aggressive media, which eliminates rust and corrosion.
• Energy transfer. In hydraulic systems, oil is the working medium that transfers force from the pump to the actuators.

The temporary market for industrial oils is extremely diverse, and their classification can be based on different criteria. However, there are several key categories:

• hydraulic oils;
• transmission (gear) oils;
• compressor oils;
• circulating oils;
• lubricants and coolants;
• specialized oils.

Hydraulic oils are designed for hydraulic systems where they transfer energy, lubricate components, cool and protect against corrosion. They can be general-purpose or specialized (for example, for operation at extreme temperatures or in the food industry).

Transmission (gear) oils are used to lubricate gearboxes, where they ensure operation at high loads and pressures. They must have excellent extreme Pressure properties.

Compressor oils are intended for lubrication and cooling of compressors (screw, reciprocating, refrigerating). The requirements for them can be very high, for example, low propensity to coking and oxidation.

Circulating oils are used in lubrication systems where oil circulates continuously, performing lubrication, cooling and protection.

Lubricants and coolants are often classified into a separate category, they perform the functions of lubrication and cooling in metalworking, which makes them an important part of industrial oils.

Specialized oils, thermal oils (for heating systems), transformer oils (for electrical equipment), lubricants for guides, conveyor oils, etc.

Industrial oils are indispensable in almost all industries where mechanical equipment is used.

Here are just some of the key industries:

• Metalworking. On machine tools, presses, rolling mills – for lubrication, cooling, corrosion protection and chip removal.
• Energy. In turbines (steam, gas, hydro), generators, transformers – for lubrication, cooling, insulation and corrosion prevention.
• Mechanical engineering. In hydraulic systems of presses, excavators, lifting mechanisms, as well as for lubrication of gearboxes and bearings.
• Food industry. Special edible oils that comply with strict sanitary standards are used to lubricate equipment in contact with food.
• Chemical industry. For lubrication of pumps, compressors, reactors operating in aggressive environments.
• Oil and gas industry. In drilling rigs, pumps, compressors, hydraulic systems.
• Forestry and woodworking industry. For chainsaw chain lubrication, machine tools, and woodworking equipment.
• Railway transport, ships, construction equipment.

Additives are the “brain” of modern industrial oils. The base oil itself has certain lubricating properties, but it is the additives that give it the necessary performance characteristics, allowing it to work in extreme conditions and perform many functions.

Modern industrial oils contain complexes of dozens of different additives that:

• They enhance anti-wear and extreme pressure properties. They form a protective layer on the metal surface that prevents direct contact and setting under high loads.
• Improve antioxidant properties. They slow down the aging process of the oil, preventing its decomposition under the influence of high temperature and oxygen, which increases the replacement intervals.
• Prevent corrosion. They neutralize acidic oxidation products and form a protective film on metal surfaces.
• Improve detergent and dispersant properties. They help to keep the system clean, preventing the formation of deposits and slag.
• Reduce foaming. They prevent the formation of foam, which impairs lubricating properties and can lead to cavitation.
• They increase the viscosity index. They ensure the preservation of optimal oil viscosity over a wide temperature range.

First of all, it is necessary to refer to the operating instructions of the equipment itself.

The manufacturer specifies the recommended oil types, viscosity classes, standards and tolerances that the oil must meet.

Key factors in choosing an industrial oil:

• The type of equipment and its main components. Hydraulic system, gearbox, compressor, bearings.
• Operating conditions. Temperature conditions (operating temperature, ambient temperature), loads (high, medium, low), rotation/movement speed.
• Working environment. The presence of water, steam, aggressive chemicals, and food products.
• Required characteristics. The need for anti-wear properties, anti-corrosion protection, thermal stability, energy saving.
• Standards and tolerances. Oil compliance with international (ISO, DIN) and industry standards, as well as specific tolerances of equipment manufacturers.

Modern industrial oils are high–tech products that play an indispensable role in maintaining the operability and efficiency of industrial equipment.

The correct selection of oil, based on the recommendations of the equipment manufacturer and taking into account the operating conditions, is the key to reducing repair costs.

In most cases, no, change the car oil according to the season in the traditional sense (separately “summer” and “winter” oil) It is no longer necessary. Modern engine oils are all-season. This means that the same oil is designed to work efficiently at both low temperatures in winter and high temperatures in summer.

All-season performance is achieved through the use of special additives and base oils that ensure optimal oil viscosity over a wide temperature range. This is reflected in the viscosity marking, for example, 5W-30 or 10W-40.

The first digit with the letter “W” (Winter) indicates the low–temperature properties of the oil, and the second digit indicates its viscosity at the operating temperature of the engine. Thus, one all-season oil combines the characteristics of “winter” and “summer” oils.

SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) viscosity designations are the key to understanding the seasonal characteristics of an oil.:

The first digit with the letter “W” characterizes the winter viscosity of the oil. The lower this figure, the more liquid the oil remains at low temperatures. This is crucial for starting the engine in the cold, as the more liquid oil is pumped faster through the lubrication system, protecting the parts from the very first revolutions. Oil marked 0W will be the most fluid in the cold, followed by 5W, 10W, and so on.

The second figure characterizes the high-temperature viscosity of the oil, that is, its “density” at the operating temperature of the engine (about 100 ° C). The higher this figure, the more viscous the oil remains when heated. This means that it will better retain its protective film between the engine parts under high loads and temperatures.

Thus, the designation of viscosity in itself indicates the suitability of the oil for various temperature conditions throughout the year.

The choice of oil viscosity, taking into account the climate, is, first of all, following the recommendations of the manufacturer of your car, indicated in the instruction manual. Automakers are already taking into account the temperature conditions for different regions.

However, if you live in a region with very cold winters, you should prefer oils with a lower first digit (for example, 0W or 5W) to ensure easy engine start and quick lubrication at low temperatures.

If your region is characterized by very hot summers and you often operate your car under high loads (for example, in traffic jams, when driving with a trailer, off-road), it may be worth paying attention to oils with a higher second viscosity (for example, 5W-40 or 10W-40 instead of 5W-30). if it is allowed by the manufacturer. However, it is important to remember that modern low-viscosity oils (for example, 0W-20, 5W-30) have excellent high-temperature characteristics due to advanced additives, and a thicker oil is not always the best choice.

In the era of modern technology, when one all-season oil is able to work effectively over a wide temperature range, there is no need for seasonal oil change.

The main thing is to follow the recommendations of your car’s manufacturer, choosing an oil with the correct viscosity and appropriate tolerances. This ensures maximum engine protection, durability and optimal performance in all climatic conditions.

The viscosity of an engine oil is its ability to resist the flow. The viscosity of the oil directly affects how effectively it will lubricate engine parts under various operating conditions, especially at extreme temperatures.

The correct viscosity ensures a thin but strong oil film between the moving parts of the engine (pistons, crankshaft, camshafts). This film prevents direct contact of metal surfaces, reducing friction, wear and overheating.

If the oil is too thin, the oil film may rupture without providing adequate protection. If the oil is too thick, it will be difficult to pump through the lubrication system, especially at low temperatures, which can lead to oil starvation when starting the engine and increase the load on the oil pump.