Low Viscosity Lubricants for Improved Fuel Economy in Heavy Duty Engines while Maintaining Lubricant and Engine Durability

摘要

Fuel economy, low exhaust gas emissions and durability can be considered as the most important performance characteristics of heavy-duty engines. Higher fuel prices and emerging fuel economy regulations have increased the interest level in fuel economy of internal combustion engines. In addition, engine manufacturers and fleet owners require a continuous improvement of engine durability in combination with low maintenance costs. The effect of lubricant's viscosity grade, base oil type, VI improver type, and performance additives on fuel economy in a heavy duty engine operating under different operating conditions have been evaluated. A further study was conducted to evaluate which viscometric parameters impact the fuel efficiency of a truck engine. Results from a series of field tests and engine dynamometer tests with low viscosity lubricants are presented as well. The data demonstrate that low viscosity lubricants, if blended with well balanced additive packages, can be used in modern heavy duty engines to improve fuel economy with no detrimental effects on drain interval and engine durability.