WHY CHOOSE SYNTHETICS?

Synthetic lubricants can provide a variety of benefits that help keep your equipment running at optimal performance for years to come. To understand synthetic oils, let’s look first at the origins of all oils, particularly motor oils.

Conventional oils come from crude oil that is pumped from the ground. Crude oil is made up of a complex mixture of molecules that form chains and rings of different sizes and shapes. Long chains of carbon atoms produce a thick, viscous fluid that flows slowly. Shorter chains produce fluid that flows more readily.

In an oil refinery, crude oil is separated into various fractions. These become the basis for lubricating oils and fuels. Thick tangled masses of carbon chains become asphaltic materials used in roofing tar and roadwork. Very short chains and ring compounds of carbon are volatile and can be refined to produce gasoline and other products.

Myth vs. Fact
People have a lot to say about synthetic oils. Unfortunately, it’s not always accurate. Imperial Oil is here to clear things up. Read below to get the truth behind some of the most common misconceptions about synthetic oils and your vehicle.

Myth:
You should break in your engine with conventional oil, then switch to a synthetic oil like Mobil 1.

Reality:
You can start using Mobil 1 with SuperSyn Technology in new vehicles at any time, even in brand new vehicles. One of the myths that surrounds synthetic oils is that new engines require a break-in period with conventional oil. The fact is, current engine manufacturing technology does not require this break-in period.

Myth:
Mobil 1 can’t be used in diesel engines.

Reality:
Mobil 1 will provide excellent service for passenger car and light duty truck diesel engines (API CF or CD), as well as European diesel cars that require oils to meet specific car builder approvals or ACEA-quality oils. (This is the oil specification used in Europe and developed by European car companies.) Additionally, Mobil 1 Truck & SUV Formula is designed specifically for light-duty diesels that require an API CI-4 oil. Be sure to check the oil quality recommended in your owners’ manual for your diesel engine.

Heavy duty truck engines that require API CE, CF-4, CG-4, CH-4 or CI-4 should use one of the products from the Delvac® line – Mobil Delvac 1® synthetic engine oil or Mobil Delvac 1300 Super. Mobil Delvac 1 synthetic oil can help improve fuel economy, extend oil drain intervals, extend engine life, provide enhanced wear/cleanliness protection and reduce oil consumption.

What Can Synthetics Do for You?

Synthetic lubricants:
Work where mineral oils reach their limits
Solve specific lubrication problems (e.g. to enable an under-designed machine to operate properly)
Provide enhanced cost and/or performance (e.g. longer drain intervals and less downtime)

Key factors in your decision are the severity of service, any special requirements and safety or environmental concerns. Imperial Oil’s line of synthetic lubricants can provide:

Longer oil drains — Thanks to their superior oxidation stability, synthetic oils can last considerably longer than mineral lubricants. You’ll spend less time changing lubricants and money on used-oil disposal. Oxidation stability also reduces the risk of harmful deposits on components. That means fewer shutdowns for equipment maintenance and cleaning – a plus for your production.

Energy savings – Compared to mineral oils, whose molecules come in assorted shapes and sizes, synthetic-oil molecules are relatively uniform. When they move against each other, it creates less heat and friction. The cooler operating temperature is easier on oil and equipment. Reducing friction can also significantly save energy, further easing your costs of operation.

Severe-service protection – Synthetics are ideal for applications involving shock loads or other severe conditions. Unlike mineral oils, which often fail to stand up against extreme pressure, synthetics retain their structure – along with their ability to lubricate and guard against wear. That can save labor, lubricant and equipment – and lower the risk of lost protection due to breakdown.

Safe operation in temperature extremes – Synthetic oils are free of wax, which can solidify at low temperatures and make mineral oils resistant to flow. Synthetics flow almost immediately – at any temperature – to protect your components and save time on warm-ups. Extreme heat? Synthetics resist the oxidation that causes some oils to leave deposits. That can save you money on repairs and keep your production running smoothly.


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