Important Factors About Marine Lubricating Oil
When choosing marine lubricating oil, you will come across a lot
of options in the market. Considering a few factors can help in making the
marine machinery perform better. Here are a few properties that must be found
in the oil.
Alkalinity
Alkalinity is one of the major factors that play a vital role in
marine engines. The fumes when fuel is burnt carry Sulphuric acid that can
cause acidic corrosion. Marine lubricating oil is responsible for liner and
piston lubrication in four stroke or trunk piston engines. This lube oil comes
in contact with the combustible fuel. Thus, lube oil alkalinity is vital for
keeping a control over acidic corrosion. Thus, separate grade of this oil is
used.
Load Carrying Capacity
Another important factor that must be checked in the marine
lubricating oil is load carrying capacity. This factor is dependent on the oil
viscosity. It is imperative to understand here that the load is subjected to marine
engine’s internal parts and it is very high. Thus, look for an oil option that
provides enough load carrying capacity so that it can withstand pressure in the
engine. In the absence of this, the oil is pushed out and metal comes in
contact with metal resulting in a lot of wear and tear of the machine.
Oxidation Resistant
It is important to note that lube oil stays in contact with air
and presence of oxygen in oil is unavoidable. When the oil temperature is high,
the rate of oxidation also increases. After temperature crosses 85 degree
centigrade, the oxidation rate doubles with increase in every 10 degrees
centigrade. This results into acid production, sludge formation, and bearing
corrosion. Thus, look for oil that has additives added to it to keep a check on
these issues.
Thermal Conductivity
Another factor that needs to be kept in mind is thermal
conductivity. Marine engine’s internal parts are always in movement which
results in producing heat energy. It is important to carry away this heat
energy as it may cause thermal stress leading to wear down.
Considering these factors help in making the right marine
lubricating oil choices.
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