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Oil is oil ... no, it’s not that simple.
Whether it is for agricultural or mining equipment, or for your vehicle or everyday use, using the right oil is essential for the best performance and to protect the engine and machinery.
The primary function of a good lubricant or oil is to improve the reliability, performance and efficiency of equipment and machinery, says Shell, one of the leading suppliers in the world.
For example, agricultural and mining equipment work very hard in difficult conditions, so the right oil will help keep the equipment in good running order.
According to Shell, the oil for agricultural and mining machinery was developed to prevent pollution and protect machinery against oxidation and corrosion. This ensures a longer time before the oil must be replaced and, therefore, you use less oil.
READ: Lubricants industry is driving the clean-up of used oil in SA
With the right oil, machinery and equipment run for longer and reliable performance is ensured, regardless of the weather or job site.
Castrol says that, when it comes to your car, the engine oil should be changed at the intervals recommended by the vehicle manufacturer.
Also keep an eye on the oil level. Newer vehicles have sensors that monitor the oil level, while the oil dipstick in older vehicles is used to measure where the oil level is.
It is advisable to check oil levels every few weeks and also before driving long distances. By keeping the oil at a healthy level, you can extend the reliable, powerful and economical running of your engine for years.
Castrol says on its website that, with the latest cars, factors such as fuel quality, extreme temperatures and stop-start driving can also have an impact on how much oil an engine consumes.
Shell’s experts explain that an engine with the right oil is more fuel efficient and therefore gives your vehicle more momentum for longer. Parts and surfaces that endure a lot of friction are protected and, with the correct oil, the amount of wear is reduced, making the parts last longer.
Dewald Ranft, chairperson of the Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA), warns in a statement on MIWA’s website that it is not a question of the most colourful packaging or the best marketing, but rather a question of the specifications and approvals on the packaging.
READ: Recycling hazardous used oil responsibly is essential to protect our environment
MIWA, a subsidiary of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation, says the best starting point is the specifications of the original equipment manufacturer about the oil that should be used in your vehicle or machine. This usually appears in the manual that comes with the vehicle.
Make sure of this recommendation before you come to the service station or workshop to have the oil changed. Look out for the specifications on the labels.
For the best high-quality oil for each industry, Shell suggests the following questions:
- Is the oil’s viscosity (flow inertia) specified in the owner’s manual for your vehicle engine or other machine?
- Is the oil I’m using right for my petrol, diesel or LPG engine?
- What type of oil should I use in my equipment: mineral or synthetic?
- Has the oil been tested and approved for good performance by the American Petroleum Institute and/or the European Automobile Manufacturers Association, and/or the equipment manufacturer?
- Will using this oil void my warranty?
Source: Shell
