What are the benefits of using synthetic engine oil over conventional one
Categories of engine oil
Engine oil is an essential component for the smooth running of any type of vehicle as well as machines with engines. Engine oil offers lubrication between moving parts and prevents corrosion, rust, and external pollutants from affecting the engine. Thus, the choice of engine oil plays a big part in the condition of the engine and its longevity.
When choosing an engine oil for a vehicle, it is important to first be aware of all the different types of oils that are available. There are three main categories of engine oil i.e. Mineral oil, semi-synthetic oil and synthetic oil.
Mineral oil
Mineral oil is the crudest kind of engine oil. It is basically refined petroleum oils with treatment and is seen as a base oil for the other two types of oils. While mineral oil is the cheapest, it is also the least effective one. Mineral oil offers very little lubrication and protection and is ineffective in colder temperatures. At the same time, they also often break down in very high engine temperatures and thus are not reliable. Furthermore, they need to be replaced frequently and can end up costing more.
Semi-synthetic oil
Semi-synthetic oil, the second type, is a blend of synthetic oil with mineral oil. This type of oil is more viscous and wear-resistant than mineral oil. It can also perform better at a variety of temperatures and offers better protection and lubrication. However, since it has some amount of mineral oil in it, it is also susceptible to break down and needs to be replaced regularly.
Synthetic oil
Synthetic oil is the most popular and effective engine oil in the market today. Synthetic oil is developed using cutting edge technology by putting mineral oil through very extensive treatment in the laboratory. This not only makes the oil superior to others in function, but also allows even the smallest of impurities to be removed. The molecules in synthetic oil are very consistent in their size and shape and therefore they function optimally at all times.
While synthetic oil is costlier than the other types of oils, it offers a range of benefits, as follows:
Improved fuel economy
Synthetic oil has optimum viscosity which results in higher performance of the engine. It can function efficiently in both hot and cold temperatures. This improves the fuel economy of the vehicle and results in more savings.
Cleaner engine
The wear and tear of the engine and the engine oil results in the creation of a black gel like substance called sludge. This sludge gets deposited in the engine and can hamper its performance. However, since synthetic oil is much more refined, it leads to very little amount of sludge and it keeps the engine cleaner in the long run.
Greater protection
As mentioned before, since synthetic oil is refined and treated to a great extent, it offers excellent protection and lubrication to the engine. It can protect the engine regardless of the temperature and usage and prevents any corrosion, rust or other pollutant from harming the internal parts of an engine.
Enhanced performance
Along with protecting the engine, synthetic oil also provides top quality lubrication. This reduces friction between the moving parts, especially at higher speeds and temperatures. This reduction in friction in turn ensures that there are no internal drags or damage.
All weather use
Mineral oil or semi-synthetic oils can function very differently at different temperatures. Their viscosity is not suitable for all weather and thus they can break down at high temperatures or become too thick in low temperatures. However, synthetic oil is made to function optimally at even the most extreme temperatures and thus are consistent in all weather situations.
