Important Applications and Benefits of Marine Lubricant Oils

Marine environments are harsh and remote, and those who have been there understand how stranded they feel. So, how can you expect your boats to go there safely and bring you back in such a remote and unforgiving environment? The simple answer is to maintain the engines of marine vessels with the application of marine lubricant oil.

In this blog, we will learn about the five important applications of marine lubricants. Once you read this, you will know how they can save your vessels from tumultuous circumstances.

How Are Marine Engine Oils Different from Regular Engine Oils?

Before we begin the application of marine lubricant oil, let us first understand what makes it different. Even though it serves the same function as regular engine oil, the composition of marine engine oils is different. This is because, unlike regular oils, these oils have to operate in moist environments.

When it comes to the composition of marine lubes they often use a mixture of minerals and synthetic base oils. They are specifically designed to tolerate harsh conditions. The additives used in marine lubricants are high-grade to ensure the best performance in the marine environment.

Major Applications of Marine Lubricant Oils

Quality marine lubricants are used to ensure that the engines in a marine vessel work optimally. The major goal is to lubricate all parts of the engine. They help prolong the life of the engine comprehensively. The major way these lubricants work is by:

  • Corrosion Prevention

One of the biggest factors in the marine environment is moisture levels. Rust and corrosion develop faster in the presence of water. Marine lubricant oil is used to counter this. Lubricants ensure that every moving part of the marine engine is free from corrosion.

  • Sludge Buildup Prevention

Impurities are more common in the marine environment. This is the reason why high levels of detergent and dispersant additives are present in marine lubricant oil. These additives ensure there is no sludge buildup and that the engine keeps functioning well.

  • Friction Reduction

The major goal of lubricants is to reduce friction and control temperature. The same is true for marine lubricants. But marine engine oils are of high quality because there is no room for error. They are designed with the remoteness of the sea in mind so that they keep functioning for a long time.

  • Fuel Efficiency

Conservation of fuel is important, especially when you know the journey might take long. Enhancing the fuel efficiency of the engines is one of the primary functions of marine lubricant oil. The oil ensures that the engine works well, which boosts the energy efficiency of the fuel.

Major Properties of Marine Engine Oils

Various properties are required by quality marine lubricants, these properties play an essential role in improving their overall functionality. Some of the properties mentioned below are:

Viscosity

Viscosity is an important property of lubricants. It is the resistance to the flow of a liquid. Generally, the lubricants with high viscosity are better in terms of performance. In the marine industry, high performance is required, so high-viscosity lubricants are in demand. The average viscosity range that is ideal for marine lubricant oil is between 85 and 115. Various additives are used to improve the viscosity index of the lubricants.

Oxidation

The presence of oxygen in oil can result in sludge formation and corrosion. This is the reason why oxidation of the lubricants is important. A good lubricant for marine engines ensures that the oxygen is removed from the fuel and the engine. This property is essential to avoid sludge formation.

Alkalinity

In a combustion chamber, when fuel burns, it produces sulfuric acid, which results in corrosion. This is one of the reasons why the alkalinity of marine lubricant oils is pretty important. These lubricants reduce the acidity and make sure that corrosion is prevented. This shows that alkalinity is an important property of quality marine lubricants.

Load Capacity

The engines of the ships and submarines are constantly overworking. Lubricants need to keep up with this load. This means that the lubricants should be able to withstand the pressure within the engine. The higher the load capacity of the marine lubricant oils, the better they will be able to deliver in high-load circumstances.

Thermal Conductivity

Cooling is an essential characteristic of lubricants. But how do they cool the engine down? They can do this thanks to their thermal conductivity. This is an important property since temperature control is majorly important for high efficiency. Marine engines generate a lot of heat as well. This means the lubricants used must be able to conduct some of it away and cool the engines down. So, higher thermal conductivity means more cooling and enhanced engine efficiency.

Environmental Sustainability

Environmental sustainability is essential to prevent severe climate change. This is the reason why the marine industry aims to cut its carbon emissions. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) targets net-zero emissions by around 2050. Alternative fuels, like methanol and ammonia, are key strategies. Methanol is available now and significantly reduces harmful emissions compared to diesel. Developers are studying methanol’s effects on marine lubricants using tests and a few methanol-powered ships. Ammonia, being carbon-free, is also promising. Yet, it poses challenges such as combustion issues, compatibility, corrosion, toxicity, and safety concerns.

Atlantic Grease & Lubricants

Selection of the marine lubricant oil can be a hassle there are a few choices around, Atlantic Grease & Lubricants is one of the top in this regard. They have the best lubricants that will keep your marine vessels safe and functional for years to come. Get in touch with their experts and end your search for the best marine lubricants in the UAE.

sarajhonson

Sara is a dedicated chemical specialist experience in the chemical and polymers industry.
Possessing a keen understanding of industry trends and customer preferences.