Formulation Capabilities with API Group III Synthetic Fluids

The continuing evolution of higher performing automotive lubricants has led to significant changes in the qualities of base oils which form the building blocks for these products. Through the use of hydroprocessing and hydrodewaxing technologies, the growth of API Group III fluids has been dramatic and in many cases can deliver performance previously reserved to polyalphaolefins (PAO's).

This paper will review the benefits that can be obtained from these new API Group III fluids with particular emphasis on severely hydrocracked and hydro-isomerized processing. Examples will be provided from automotive products where the direct replacement of API Group IV PAO's with API Group III fluids can maintain and in some instances improve “synthetic” performance.