The Impact on Lubricant Ingredients

Will GF-5 require new ingredients for lubricants?

Additive companies and Oil Marketers will determine the appropriate lubricant ingredients to meet GF-5 performance requirements, once GF-5 tests and limits are defined.  The Needs Statement for GF-5 is approved by ILSAC/OIL and shapes the levels of performance required over and above GF-4.

Performance Additives

Additive technology will enable the performance levels that ultimately represent GF-5.  These performance levels will likely require:

• Improved phosphorous retention  (ZDP) to enable emission system durability while maintaining engine protection
• Increased levels of organic/inorganic Friction Modifiers to meet improved fuel economy and fuel economy retention
• Enhanced emulsion and rust protection for Flex Fuel Vehicle specifically those that run on ethanol based fuel (E85)
• Greater seal compatibility to help ensure seal longevity and prevent oil leakage in older vehicles, as demonstrated by a new seal test specifically developed for GF-5

Base Oils

A greater demand for 0W-20 oils is expected. Formulating 0W-20 oils requires the use of Group III Base Oils.

Viscosity Modifier

Viscosity modifying additives (VM) control the temperature-viscosity relationship of engine oils.  Viscosity modifiers are susceptible to shear degradation in the engine.  Viscosity modifiers with good fuel economy and high temperature deposit performance will be needed to meet the requirements of GF-5.  

Pour Point Depressant (PPD)

Pour Point Depressants (PPD) continue to play an important role in managing both the new and used low temperature properties of the finished oil.   As base stocks, additives, and VM evolve with new specifications, careful selection of PPD ensures fail-safe low temperatures performance.