We all know the importance of oil change and how disastrous it can be for the engine if neglected. But do you know how engine oil was invented?
Or what exactly is engine oil?
And why is it so important?
Our minds asked these questions too so we gathered up the required information and made up this guide for you. Today you will get to know everything you need to know about engine oil.
Birth of Engine Oil or Lubricant
On September 6, 1866, an American named John Ellis invented the first lube oil. He recognized crude oil’s lubricating properties. The engine oil was first successfully tested in a steam engine by John. He made a breakthrough by creating oil from crude oil that was effectively lubricated at high temperatures.
What is lubricant oil?
Lubricating oil, also known as lubricant/lube, is a type of oil used to reduce friction, heat, and wear between mechanical components that come into contact with one another. Lubricating oil is used in automobiles, where it is referred to as motor oil and transmission fluid.
5 Functions of Engine Oil:
Is reducing friction the only function of engine oil? No, it is far more useful than that. Following are 5 of the major functions engine oil is responsible for:
- Reduces friction between load-bearing surfaces.
- Reduces wear by preventing moving parts from making metal-on-metal contact.
- Reduces temperature by removing heat from fluid friction and fuel combustion.
- Prevents corrosion by coating metal parts and flushing debris out of moving parts.
- Absorbs mechanical shock in gears
4 Types of Engine Oil:
Not all engine oils are alike. Here are 4 most common types of engine oil:
1: Mineral Oil:
Mineral oils are available in a variety of viscosity and quality grades. They are recommended for drivers who have simple engine designs and drive in a consistent manner. Drivers with a heavy foot or a variety of driving styles are strongly advised to use synthetic oils, as they have a longer service life and oil drain interval!
2: High-Mileage Engine Oil:
High-mileage engine oils contain additives and ingredients that help keep older engines with 75,000 miles or more running smoothly. Conditioners, seal swells, antioxidants, detergents, and wear friction additives aid in the prevention of major engine breakdowns and car maintenance issues in older vehicles. High-mileage motor oil may help to reduce oil consumption, leaks, and smoke and emissions.
3: Synthetic Motor Oil:
Synthetic engine oil is two to four times the price of conventional oil, but it is better for your engine in the long run. In terms of your car’s lifespan, the money you spend on synthetic motor oil may pay for itself in lower maintenance costs by preventing major problems later on. Synthetic oil is made up of a base of highly refined conventional oil, powder additives, and carrier oil that distributes the additives evenly throughout your engine.
4: Semi-Synthetic Oil:
Semi-synthetic oils are a blend of synthetic and mineral oils that provide greater oxidation resistance than mineral oil while also providing excellent low-temperature properties for your beloved engine.
