Multiple Engine Types = Multiple Oils?

Typically, a fleet with multiple engine types calls for multiple oil types. For example, diesel engine oil and gasoline engine oil traditionally have several differences including:

1. Viscosity: Diesel engine oils generally have higher viscosity ratings than gasoline engine oils. This is because diesel engines operate at higher compression ratios, higher temperatures, and under heavier loads, requiring oils with greater resistance to shear and better film strength.
2. Additive Package: Gasoline engine oils are formulated with additives that focus on reducing friction and wear, preventing deposits, and controlling oxidation and foaming. Diesel engine oils, on the other hand, have additives that address specific challenges such as soot control, high-temperature stability, and increased alkalinity to neutralize acidic byproducts of combustion.
3. Base Oil Composition: The base oil used in gasoline engine oils is typically derived from crude oil fractions, while diesel engine oils often incorporate synthetic base oils or high-quality mineral oils. This is because diesel engines generally subject the oil to more severe conditions, necessitating oils with better thermal stability and oxidation resistance
4. Storage and transportation: Diesel oil can be stored and transported at a higher temperature compared to gas oil, which makes it easier to handle in cold weather conditions. Gas oil requires special handling and storage conditions to prevent it from evaporating or catching fire.

As stated, these are among the differences between diesel engine oil and gas engine oil. Nowadays, many organizations are adding compressed natural gas engines to the mix, which have their own unique needs. In the past, it was never recommended to use diesel and gas oil interchangeably, but due to advancements in technology and new oil formulations, there is now a way to streamline inventory and satisfy all engine needs with one oil.

One Oil for All

Each engine type requires a unique formula of oil. However, an alternative would be an oil that could be applied to all engine types. Today, there are options like CITGARD 800. This lubricant meets the API SN approval requirements for gasoline engines, is fortified with the CITGO SootArrest^® technology to address soot dispersion in diesel applications and provides excellent lubricity in natural gas engines.

How Does it Work?

Based on the differences between diesel engine oil and gas engine oil, you might be hesitant to consider using one oil to meet the needs of two or three different engine types. With CITGARD 800, the key to consistent performance in multiple applications is the additive blend.

The right additive technology should deliver superior oxidation and nitration protection combined with a shear stability improver to maintain viscosity, ensuring wear protection in severe applications. The right formulation for a consolidated lubricant provides superior engine deposit control, reducing the tendency for valve guttering due to higher combustion temperatures in CNG engines and oil oxidation in the higher operating temperatures of modern diesel engines.

What Are the Benefits?

There is significant value in using one oil for all engine types, and it all boils down to efficiency in both inventory planning and maintenance. Keep in mind that users only see the benefits if the chosen oil is carefully formulated to not just operate in multiple engine types, but operate optimally.

Streamlined Inventory

Tracking and ordering multiple engine oils can become inconvenient, especially with the uncertainty in the supply chain. Having one engine oil allows you to more easily estimate oil consumption and keep a sufficient amount in storage at all times.

Simplifies Maintenance

When servicing a fleet, technicians must perform several tune ups and inspections to ensure optimal safety and performance of the vehicles, many of these requiring unique tools and parts. In the midst of these maintenance tasks, it can be easy to grab the wrong oil, or worse, purposely choose an unsuitable oil if the correct one is out of stock. Based on Noria's Lubrication Program Development experience, this type of application risk has shown to be one of the most costly aspects to unconsolidated or mislabeled lubricant products. One oil ensures the right oil is applied every time.

Reduces Cost

By ensuring a suitable engine oil is applied every time, your engine lasts longer and performs better, minimizing the need for costly repairs. Furthermore, an engine oil that is formulated for superior oxidation resistance and acid neutralization can also extend oil drain intervals, resulting in fewer oil purchases throughout the year.

Bottom Line

In decades past, using one oil for multiple engine types was unheard of due to the varying needs of each engine. Today, companies can streamline their inventory and simplify maintenance practices by using an oil that is formulated to not only meet the needs of diesel, gas, and CNG engines, but provide superior protection for engine components. To learn more about CITGARD 800, visit CITGARD 800 Engine Oil.