How to extend the oil change period of lubricating oil?
author: Leila
2024-07-25
Lubricating oil deteriorates because of oxidation. Antioxidants are added to lubricating oil during production. The role of antioxidants is to "sacrifice" themselves and replace oil to be oxidized. Therefore, to a certain extent, it can "delay" the time when lubricating oil begins to oxidize. However, as a user, since the dosage and composition of additives cannot be scientifically mastered, and the more additives, the better. If too much antioxidant is added, other properties of lubricating oil may be affected. Therefore, it is generally not recommended that users add additives by themselves.
The following methods can help extend the oil change period:
1. Use high-quality lubricating oil: The components of lubricating oil are base oil and various additives. Although antioxidants help to extend the service life of oil, the type of base oil is one of the determining factors that determine the service life of lubricating oil. For example, synthetic oil (common such as PAO) is pure in composition, while mineral oil is made from petroleum, and there will always be some impurities such as sulfides and nitrides remaining. It is easier to oxidize and deteriorate during use, so the service life is relatively short compared to synthetic oil.
2. Control oil temperature: Although the oxidation of lubricating oil is inevitable, under normal circumstances, it will slowly oxidize after contact with air. However, some factors will accelerate the oxidation rate, such as high temperature. After exceeding 60℃, the service life of the lubricant will be halved for every 10℃ increase. Therefore, pay attention to controlling the oil temperature and use cooling equipment when necessary.
3. Pollution control: In addition to high temperature, oil will also oxidize if it is contaminated. Therefore, attention should be paid to anti-fouling from the beginning to avoid other impurities and moisture in the oil. Lubricant oxidation will generate impurities such as colloid, paint film, and sludge. These substances will accelerate the oxidation of the oil. These harmful substances can be removed by auxiliary filtering equipment such as oil filter and oil purification equipment.
4. Restore the concentration of additives: As mentioned earlier, additives should not be added by themselves, because it is impossible to master the reasonable dosage. For example, different base oil types will have different solubility in additives. The oil manufacturer should be consulted to understand the appropriate type of antioxidant, and then under the guidance of laboratory testing, confirm that the addition will not cause problems, and then add it to the normal concentration. This method is generally suitable for large-capacity lubrication systems, such as the lubrication systems of turbines and large compressor units.
5. Partial replacement: drain part of the old oil and add new oil at the same time, so that part of the old oil is replaced, which can reduce the concentration of impurities in the oil and bring some new additives into the old oil.
When receiving new oil, the new oil should be tested for reference.
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