Undisputed King of Base Oils?

[buster]

Interesting discussion on AN's.

 

[skyactiv]

Here is a link to ExxonMobil https://www.exxonmobilchemical.com/en/products/synthetic-base-stocks/alkylated-naphthalene

 

[dnewton3]

Very informative in a manner consumable for most of us non-chemists.

 

[ARCOgraphite]

Whatever is in my Fridge compressor for the past 30 years without being changed is pretty amazing

But ... not I.C engine.

AN have poor Viscosity index ( typ < 100) and relatively high pour point compared to PAO

But a wonderful blending "partner" to get desired properties from a finished lubricant

 

[Tom NJ]

A good presentation, but a bit misleading in its comparisons to "esters". Esters are a huge family with a great variation in properties, so any comparisons really should identify the ester he is comparing to, and note that the comparisons do not apply to all esters.

For example, many POEs have better oxidative stability and low coking tendencies at very high temperatures than these ANs, and some have equal hydrolytic stability. Many esters used in lubrication also have better VIs, lubricity, and low temperature properties, and POEs are more versality in custom designing a balance of properties.

Both ANs and esters, of course, have their place in lubricants and either may prove better in a given application or formulation. Making broad statements about broad chemical families, however, doesn't tell a complete story.

 

[wpod]

Again , we find the best oils being a blend for a reason.

 

[MolaKule]

Again , we find the best oils being a blend for a reason.

Exactly. Various mixes of base oil types of different viscosities, along with a DI additive package, with possibly some boosting chemistry for increased performance, is what makes for a "formulated" lubricant.

Labeling one base oil as 'King' seems to ignore other important factors in a formulated lubricant.

 

[wpod]

A good presentation, but a bit misleading in its comparisons to "esters". Esters are a huge family with a great variation in properties, so any comparisons really should identify the ester he is comparing to, and note that the comparisons do not apply to all esters.

For example, many POEs have better oxidative stability and low coking tendencies at very high temperatures than these ANs, and some have equal hydrolytic stability. Many esters used in lubrication also have better VIs, lubricity, and low temperature properties, and POEs are more versality in custom designing a balance of properties.

Both ANs and esters, of course, have their place in lubricants and either may prove better in a given application or formulation. Making broad statements about broad chemical families, however, doesn't tell a complete story.

Tom is the film strenght of the different base oils[ if that is the proper terminology ] a valid concern?

 

[Tom NJ]

While polar base oils should have greater film strength due to their attraction to metal surfaces, I expect the additives are a bigger factor.