Saturday 7 June 2014

When To Buy Synthetic Oil

By Sally Delacruz


High-performance vehicle owners are very familiar with the need for lubrication strong enough to resist temperature extremes without breaking down. Made primarily from organic compounds and hydrocarbon derivatives, these laboratory-designed engine oils differ radically from standard petroleum products. Although many drivers are aware that there is an alternative, most have questions regarding when or even whether to buy synthetic oil.

First manufactured during the Second World War, it was developed in an effort to keep dwindling crude supplies from crippling the German war machine. Like many technological advances spurred by human conflict, these products have proven commercially useful long after the fighting ended. Today, they are manufactured in mixtures ranging from pure synthetic stock, to those combined with standard lubricants.

Crude petroleum today is relatively abundant, but the price remains high due to increased world demand. Like many human improvements on nature, making a synthetic derivative can actually drive prices higher, as much double the cost of a routine oil change. In an era when personal income shows very little real growth each year, many commuters are already pushing their financial limits just buying gasoline.

While it might also seem that a specifically designed product would eliminate many of the environmental issues associated with petroleum, that is not strictly the case. The chemicals in these fluids are not benign, and have a measurable air-quality impact. Yet even with their higher cost and environmental effect, they are being increasingly recommended by auto manufacturers as a better form of routine auto care.

Advertisers initially tried to sell synthetics using extravagant and often-disputed claims. Even though that style of marketing proved counter-productive, the products available today are superior to petroleum derivatives in a number of ways. During the manufacturing process, the molecules that comprise certain synthetic hydrocarbons and organic compounds become roughly equal in size, greatly reducing friction.

Being more homogeneous in size cuts friction, resulting in increased horsepower, while reducing overall wear and tear. Not only does this extend the life of a car or truck, but it also decreases the amount of gasoline a vehicle uses over the years. These lubricants flow normally during the coldest days of winter, while fully protecting the engine if the weather and hard driving create extended high temperatures.

Artificial compounds have a greater resistance to oxidation and thermal degradation, both of which can transform clean oil into dark sludge. This makes the intervals between recommended changes about twice as long, compensating somewhat for a higher shelf-price. Special additives resist acidic erosion, and help maintain viscosity in nearly all situations, making them perfect for engines with tightly engineered tolerances.

While it is important to follow car-maker recommendations, using these manufactured oil products can be advantageous even when not specifically required. Mixing the two varieties occasionally usually causes no damage, but it is wise to ask a mechanic which is best for a particular vehicle. A cleaner engine spews less exhaust, and using this product can be a healthier option until a time when hydrocarbons are no longer the fuel of choice.




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