What are the differences in base oil groups?
Group I, II, and III are derived from crude oil (mineral oil), Group IV is a fully synthetic oil, and Group V is for all base oils that are not included in one of the other groups. Group I oils are solvent-refined, which is a simpler refining process, making them the least refined and therefore also the cheapest base oils available.
What’s the difference between Group 2 and 3 oils?
Hydrocracking is a process that breaks down large hydrocarbon molecules into smaller ones. The hydrocarbon molecules of these oils are saturated, giving them better antioxidation properties. Group II oils are priced closely to Group I oils. Group III oils undergo an even longer process than Group II oils.
Where do the base oils in lubricants come from?
Almost all industrial lubricants now come from base oils. The American Petroleum Institute (API) has 5 base oil designations. The first three groups are derived from crude oil (mineral oil); Group IV base oils are fully synthetic; Group V is for all other base oils not included in Groups I through IV.
Which is the cheapest group of base oil?
These oils are solvent-refined, which is a simpler refining process, making these the cheapest base oils on the market Group II base oils are defined as containing more than 90% saturates, less than 0.03% sulfur, and have a V.I. of 80 to 120.
What’s the difference between Group I and Group II base oils?
Group II base oils are defined as being more than 90 percent saturates, less than 0.03 percent sulfur and with a viscosity index of 80 to 120. They are often manufactured by hydrocracking, which is a more complex process than what is used for Group I base oils. Since all the hydrocarbon molecules of these oils are saturated,
What is the temperature range for Group I base oil?
Group I base oils are classified as less than 90 percent saturates, greater than 0.03 percent sulfur and with a viscosity-index range of 80 to 120. The temperature range for these oils is from 32 to 150 degrees F. Group I base oils are solvent-refined, which is a simpler refining process.
What is the viscosity of Group 3 base oil?
Group III Group III base oils are greater than 90 percent saturates, less than 0.03 percent sulfur and have a viscosity index above 120. These oils are refined even more than Group II base oils and generally are severely hydrocracked (higher pressure and heat). This longer process is designed to achieve a purer base oil.
What is the API category for GL-5 gear oils?
The API category GL-5 for gear oils designates the lubricant as appropriate for hypoid gears in automotive axles. The lubricant is sufficient for high speed, low speed and high-torque conditions. The U.S. Military qualifies some oils as MIL-L-2105D, MIL-PRF-2105E and SAE J2360, all of which meet the requirements of GL-5 gear oils.
