TBN 400 refers to a super high Total Base Number (TBN) detergent additive, typically a super overbased calcium sulfonate or calcium phenate, with a TBN value of approximately 400 mg KOH/g.
🧪 What Is TBN?
TBN (Total Base Number) is a measure of an oil additive’s alkaline reserve, expressed in milligrams of potassium hydroxide (KOH) per gram of sample. It tells you how well an additive can neutralize acids, especially those formed during fuel combustion (e.g., sulfuric and nitric acids).
- Higher TBN = More acid-neutralizing power
🔍 What Is a TBN 400 Additive?
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Type | Super overbased calcium sulfonate |
| TBN Value | ~400 mg KOH/g |
| Appearance | Dark brown viscous liquid |
| Base Oil Carrier | Usually mineral oil or synthetic ester |
| Calcium Content | ~12–15% |
| Typical Usage | As a detergent and acid neutralizer in engine oils and marine oils |
🛠️ How Is TBN 400 Achieved?
A typical TBN 400 detergent is synthesized by:
- Sulfonation of alkylbenzene → Forms alkylbenzene sulfonic acid
- Neutralization with Ca(OH)₂ → Forms calcium sulfonate
- Overbasing with excess CaO or Ca(OH)₂ + CO₂ → Micron-sized calcium carbonate dispersed in oil
- Surfactant (e.g., phenol, alkyl salicylate) helps stabilize particles in oil
- Result: High-TBN, stable, oil-dispersible detergent
📈 Applications of TBN 400 Detergents
| Application Area | Why Use TBN 400? |
|---|---|
| Marine cylinder oils | Neutralize high sulfur fuel acids (HFO) |
| Diesel engine oils (CI-4/CK-4) | Maintain cleanliness, prevent acid corrosion |
| Industrial engine oils | Long drain intervals, high ash reserve |
| Grease manufacturing | As a thickener booster and corrosion protector |
✅ Advantages
- Extremely high acid-neutralizing capacity
- Excellent detergency for high-ash conditions
- Useful in formulations requiring high TBN boost with limited treat space
- Enhances piston and ring cleanliness
- Improves oxidation and corrosion resistance
⚠️ Considerations
| Factor | Note |
|---|---|
| Ash content | High — may not be suitable for low-SAPS formulations |
| Sulfur content | May be present if made from petroleum sulfonates |
| Compatibility | Must balance with dispersants and ZDDP in formulation |
| Foaming tendency | Needs defoamer in some cases |
🧴 Treat Rates in Formulations
| Oil Type | Typical Treat Rate of TBN 400 |
|---|---|
| Marine Cylinder Oil | 10–20% |
| Diesel Engine Oil (CI-4) | 1–5% |
| Industrial Engine Oil | 2–6% |
| Grease | 0.5–2% |
🧬 Example Properties of a TBN 400 Additive
| Property | Typical Value |
|---|---|
| TBN (mg KOH/g) | 400 ± 10 |
| Calcium Content (%) | 14–15 |
| Viscosity @100°C (cSt) | 100–300 |
| Flash Point (°C) | >180 |
| Appearance | Brown to dark brown liquid |
TBN stands for total base number, which is a measure of the base reserves in an engine oil. The value 400 refers to the alkalinity or base reserve level in the oil. TBN 400 is often used as a reference to indicate the base reserve in engine oils, but it does not refer to a specific compound with an MSDS.
TBN 400 refers to the total base number of the lubricant. Total base number is a measure of the reserve alkalinity in a lubricant, indicating its ability to neutralize acids formed during combustion or lubrication. In other words, TBN measures a lubricant’s ability to neutralize acidic components and maintain proper pH levels to protect the engine or equipment.
A high TBN value (such as TBN 400) indicates that the lubricant has a high level of reserve alkalinity, which means better acid neutralizing ability. High TBN lubricants are typically used in heavy-duty applications such as diesel engines, which produce more acidic compounds due to higher combustion temperatures and longer oil drain intervals.
It is important to note that the specific TBN requirements for a particular application may vary based on factors such as engine design, fuel quality, operating conditions and maintenance intervals. Engine or equipment manufacturers often specify recommended or required TBN levels for optimal performance and protection.
TBN can refer to total base number, which is a measure of the base reserves of a lubricant to neutralize acids. However, the specific grade or formulation of TBN 400 needs to be provided by the manufacturer or obtained from the technical data sheet.
TBN is a measure of an oil’s ability to neutralize acids and protect against engine corrosion and wear. It is often used to evaluate the degradation of oil over time. The higher the TBN value, the more alkaline reserves the oil has and the better it can maintain its performance under acidic conditions. However, it is important to note that the TBN value alone does not fully reflect the overall quality or performance of the oil.
TBN 400 stands for Total Base Number 400, which is a measurement used in lubricant analysis to assess the alkaline reserve present in an oil. This reserve plays a crucial role in neutralizing acids that build up during engine operation.
Here’s a breakdown of what TBN 400 means:
Function:
- TBN measures the amount of basic additives present in the oil. These additives act as buffers, neutralizing harmful organic and inorganic acids produced by combustion and oxidation within the engine.
- Acids can cause corrosion, wear, and sludge formation. By neutralizing them, TBN helps to:
- Protect engine components from damage
- Maintain oil cleanliness
- Extend oil life
Significance of TBN 400:
- Higher TBN values (like 400) indicate a greater reserve of alkalinity and thus, better acid-neutralizing capacity. This makes it particularly suitable for:
- Engines operating under severe conditions: High loads, high temperatures, extended oil change intervals.
- Diesel engines: These typically produce more acidic byproducts than gasoline engines.
- However, it’s important to note that:
- TBN decreases over time as it neutralizes acids. Oil filters help trap the neutralized acids.
- Different engine oils have different initial TBN ratings. Choosing the right oil based on engine requirements and operating conditions is important.
- Always consult your vehicle’s manufacturer’s recommendations for the appropriate engine oil and replacement intervals.
Remember, consulting with a lubrication specialist can help you select the optimal TBN rating for your specific engine and operating conditions.