The engine is the heart of the car, and engine oil is one of the key factors for the normal operation of the engine. This article will introduce the components of engine oil and their functions, as well as the relationship between these components. By understanding this knowledge, car owners can better understand the selection and use of engine oil to ensure the healthy operation of the engine.
background
Engine oil is a lubricant whose main function is to lubricate, cool, clean and seal the internal parts of the engine. These ingredients are mixed in certain proportions to meet the needs of the engine under different operating conditions.
Ingredient introduction
base oil
Base oil is the main component of engine oil, usually accounting for 70%-90%. It is a mineral oil that is extracted through refining. The main function of base oil is to provide lubricity, viscosity index and oxidation stability. It forms an oil film on metal surfaces, reducing friction and wear.
additive
Additives are an integral part of engine oil, usually accounting for 10%-30%. They improve the performance of the engine oil and make it better suited to the operating requirements of the engine. Common additives include:
a. Antioxidants: Prevent oil oxidation and extend its service life.
b. Anti-wear agent: Reduce wear on metal surfaces and improve engine durability.
c. Cleaner: remove carbon deposits and dirt to keep the inside of the engine clean.
d. Viscosity index improver: changes the viscosity index of the oil to better adapt to engine operating conditions.
e. Anti-rust agent: Prevent metal from rusting and protect internal engine parts from corrosion.
special additives
Special additives usually account for 1%-5%. They can offer special properties, such as handling extreme temperatures, high loads or long life. Common special additives include:
a. Vulcanization additives: Improve the high temperature resistance of oil so that it can still maintain stability at high temperatures.
b. Biological additives: extracted from biological substances, degradable and environmentally friendly.
c. Composite additives: Combine a variety of additives to comprehensively improve the performance of engine oil.
Ingredient analysis
There is a synergy between the components of engine oil. Base oils provide basic lubrication and viscosity index, while additives improve properties such as oxidation resistance, anti-wear, cleanability and rust prevention. Special additives can provide better protection for special working conditions.
In addition, the combination of different ingredients also needs to be paid attention to. For example, certain additives may react chemically with certain base oils, causing the oil to deteriorate. Therefore, choosing the right engine oil requires understanding its components and how they relate to each other.
Precautions
When using engine oil, you need to pay attention to the following points:
Choose engine oil of the appropriate grade and viscosity to ensure it matches the engine.
When changing the engine oil, thoroughly remove the old engine oil and avoid mixing old and new engine oil.
Avoid using engine oil that is not recommended by the original manufacturer to avoid damage to the engine.
When maintaining or replacing engine oil, confirm the quality and quantity of the engine oil and avoid adding too much or too little oil.
Regularly check the quality and quantity of engine oil to detect and solve problems promptly.
Summarize
Understanding the components of engine oil and its functions can help car owners better choose and use the engine oil suitable for their vehicles. At the same time, you also need to pay attention to the fact that the composition of engine oil will vary between different brands and grades. When choosing, you need to choose the right product that suits you. Through the correct use and maintenance of engine oil, the service life of the engine can be effectively extended and the normal operation of the vehicle can be ensured.