how does this make sense? isn't VHVI supposed to be group-III? so how could 100% group-III be semi-synthetic???
100% VHVI but is semi-synthetic???
- Thread starter rondg
- Start date
Possibly in EU? Germany requires all Group IV to be considered full synthetic.
OVERKILL
$100 Site Donor 2021
Are you perhaps thinking of Shell's XHVI base oils?
What is VHVI?
Group III oils are not considered full synthetic outside the US.
i was under the impression that all vhvi are group-iii. apparently not! some are below the 120 needed to be classified as group-III
Hydrocracked Group III bases were considered and sold as full synthetic around the world way before they were called that here in the US. Both by Mobil and Castrol. Non-hydrocracked bases are not considered synthetic here nor elsewhere.
The only place they aren't sold that way is in Germany. Everywhere else they are.
Last edited:
It's also because the Group designations expressly exclude method of manufacture. They are performance requirements. Hydrocracking (which defines synthesis in this discussion) isn't in and of itself required to meet the performance requirements of any Group I-III designation.
Conversely you could have a hydrocracked, synthetic base that is Group I or II. That process is progressive and cumulative, not a one-and-done.
Last edited:
