Laboratory Evaluation of Detergent Additives for Engine Oils

An apparatus for the laboratory evaluation of the detergent properties of additives in diesel engine oils is described. It consists of an oil sump and high temperature piston/cylinder simulators connected so as to provide a simulation of an engine oil lubrication circuit. The apparatus allows rapid evaluation of all aspects of detergency under controlled operating conditions.

The results of a series of tests carried out with this apparatus are also reported. They suggest that good discrimination between the oils containing different detergent additives can be obtained.

The results also indicate that the apparatus may be an useful tool in the investigation of various functions performed by detergent additives and the examination of synergistic effects between various additives contained in a fully formulated oil.