Wear Test Sequence IVA and Sequence VIII

[Snagglefoot]

On the back of this bottle of Shell Euro 5w40 it mentions " Superior Wear Protection" and references " Compared to API SN specification and based on Sequence IVA and Sequence VIII". Sequence IVA and VIII have not been discussed much on this forum in the last year AFAIK. Any opinions on this?
Here is a reference to the Southwest Research Center, a very reputable independent lab.

https://www.swri.org/sites/default/files/sequence-iva-test.pdf

 

[OVERKILL]

IVA has been discussed extensively in the past and I believe more recently in one of the AMSOIL threads.

As Shannow has noted in the past, BobbyDevro, who worked for Castrol, indicated that they didn't even bother testing a product for release unless it performed at half the limit on IVA.

 

[SonofJoe]

Almost every single oil I ever formulated, even the ridiculously skanky ones, passed the IVA & VIII with consummate ease. I didn't, but maybe I should have, pushed them as 'superior' oils!

Neither of these tests are particularly meaningful so I'd discount the advertising claim in its entirety.

 

[slo town]

If you look at what I assume are the test parameters, the test seems to have questionable value.

Engine speed = 1,500 RPM, cylinder head oil temp = 59C, coolant temp = 55C.

This test does not seem to be anywhere close to real world. Am I missing something?

Scott

 

[OVERKILL]

Originally Posted by SLO_Town
If you look at what I assume are the test parameters, the test seems to have questionable value.

Engine speed = 1,500 RPM, cylinder head oil temp = 59C, coolant temp = 55C.

This test does not seem to be anywhere close to real world. Am I missing something?

Scott


If you are speaking as to IVA, it's designed to replicate an engine operating perpetually in warm-up. Its temperature is specifically chosen as the heat-activated additives aren't operating yet. Going up or down in temp makes the test easier.

 

[slo town]

Originally Posted by OVERKILL
Originally Posted by SLO_Town
If you look at what I assume are the test parameters, the test seems to have questionable value.

Engine speed = 1,500 RPM, cylinder head oil temp = 59C, coolant temp = 55C.

This test does not seem to be anywhere close to real world. Am I missing something?

Scott


If you are speaking as to IVA, it's designed to replicate an engine operating perpetually in warm-up. Its temperature is specifically chosen as the heat-activated additives aren't operating yet. Going up or down in temp makes the test easier.

Makes sense, I guess. Thanks.

Scott

 

[Shannow]

BobbyDavro commented once that he'd performed the test at both higher (more active additive), and lower (more protection via viscosity), and the chosen point is the "sweet spot" for warmup wear.

 

[Gokhan]

Sequence VIII "evaluates the performance of a lubricant in preventing copper/lead/tin bearing corrosion and measure viscous shear stability under high-temperature operating conditions using unleaded gasoline."

It has to do with reserve alkalinity, which is determined by the initial TBN, TBN retention, and resistance to oxidation. It's crucial for wear resistance of bearings and rings.

A3/B4 oils should score well as a result (synthetic with high initial TBN). Their downside is that they are thicker than what most people need. Good thinner synthetics with good TBN retention (Ca/Mg mixed detergent) should also score well.