Understanding the important Properties of Marine Lubricants

Marine engine oils are a class of lubricants used to keep low- and medium-speed marine engines, which are typically found on larger ships, running properly. All lubricants aid in the reduction of friction, heat, and the prevention of damage. Marine lubricants have unique properties that make them ideal for use in boat motors, on ships, and in other marine-related applications.

The oil comes in a variety of grades and types, depending on engine speed, working conditions, operations, and specific requirements or regulations. Because of its mechanical configuration and operating conditions, each piece of equipment necessitates a specific type of lubricant. The lubricant’s goal is to improve the equipment’s reliability. It is unquestionably dependent on the operating pressure and temperature, mechanical stress, frequency of use, and a variety of other environmental parameters.

The important properties of marine lubricants 

  1. Viscosity: The ability of a fluid to resist movement or flow is referred to as its viscosity. It is one of the most important oil properties that determine which oil to use for which machinery based on its physical properties. 
  2. Alkalinity: When the fuel burns, sulfur oxides are formed, which combine with the present water vapor to form sulphuric acid. The oil’s alkalinity then balances these acidic effects. It is even more critical because oil is used to lubricate the liner in four-stroke engines. The sulfur content of the fuel oil influences the alkalinity of the lube oil.
  3. Carbon Residue: The tendency of oil to burn with a carbon residue at inert temperatures is referred to as carbon residue. These are typically gummy, causing the piston rings to become stuck within their groves. The ability of these oils to form carbon can be tested using destructive distillation with periodic heating.
  4. Oxidation resistance: The lube oil is constantly in contact with air, the presence of oxygen in the oil is unavoidable. Furthermore, as the temperature of the oil rises, so does the rate of oxidation. After 85 degrees Celsius, the increase in oil oxidation rates doubles for every 10 degrees Celsius, resulting in sludge formation, acid production, and bearing corrosion. 
  5. Load-carrying capacity: It is also an important characteristic of lube oil that is primarily determined by the oil’s viscosity. The load applied to various internal parts of the marine engine is extremely high; thus, the load-carrying capacity must be sufficient to withstand the pressure inside the engine. 

Texol is one of the most reliable and best lubricant companies in the UAE. To build a long-term commitment with their customers, they have a selection of industrial and transformer oil designed to meet the unique requirements of different industries If you’re looking for marine oil manufacturers, give them a call to discuss your needs.