How do engine oils improve efficiency?

Morris Lubricants has launched Versimax HD15; a 5W-30 heavy-duty diesel engine oil that holds the latest Volvo VDS-5 specification approval along with other original OEM qualifications. CVW has the latest.
The introduction of Volvo VDS-5 is a step change in Volvo’s approach to improving engine efficiency and reducing emissions. This heavy-duty engine oil specification sees the introduction of a lower high temperature high shear (HTHS) requirement, between 2.9 and 3.5 cP (centipoise).
HTHS simulates and measures the thickness of the oil film generated between certain components in a working engine, such as journal/bearing face and the ring/liner area. Reducing oil film thickness means less drag on the components, which translates into energy savings and ultimately reduced emissions. A further advantage of this new Versimax HD15 5W-30 grade for Volvo VDS-5 is its ability to extend oil drain intervals by a further 50 per cent.
Versimax HD15 5W-30 grade for Volvo VDS-5 is specified for use in 13 litre Euro VI Step D engine designs. Its precise formulation has been developed so that it can be used in diesel engines fitted with exhaust gas re-circulation (EGR), selective catalytic reduction (SCR – AdBlue) NOx reduction systems, diesel oxidation catalysts (DOC) and diesel particulate filters (DPFs). Versimax HD15 5W-30 also aims to maximise fuel efficiency potential by producing a thin strong oil film whilst under load, which in turn reduces energy losses and CO₂ output.
It is important to stress that this engine oil specification is not suitable for use in older engine platforms as they are not designed to operate with lubricants providing a thinner oil film at this level. But don’t worry, there are other engine oils in the Morris Lubricants’ Versimax range that can cover these older engines.
Tried and tested
To bring this specific oil formulation to market Volvo VDS-5 has seen extensive testing during its development, as thinner oil films and extended oil drain intervals increase stress levels on engine components and the engine oil. Only when all the critical parameters were robustly met did Volvo Truck approve and validate this precise candidate formulation. The field-testing regime for Volvo VDS-5 took two years and included a cross section of Volvo vehicles undertaking duties from long haul to couriers.
Morris Lubricants has now launched Versimax HD15 5W-30 and it is believed to be one of the few candidate formulations currently available in the aftermarket that has gained formal Volvo approval for VDS- 5. A copy of the formal approval letter is available upon request from the Morris Lubricants’ technical services team.
Versimax HD15 5W-30 also has Renault RLD-5 and Mack EOS-5 approvals and has the following performance levels API FA- 4/SN, JASO DH-2, Daimler DTFR 15C130, Cummins CES 20087 and Detroit Diesel DFS 93K223.
Choosing the right oil
Adrian Hill, Morris Lubricants’ technology manager explains: “The correct engine oils needed to serve the HGV market are always evolving and recently we have witnessed some significant changes. There are increasing pressures for the OEMs to design internal combustion engines that have less impact on the environment. This is achieved by designing engines that have improved fuel efficiency and reduced CO2 emissions. Therefore, heavy-duty diesel engine oils must keep up with these innovations and the oil formulations have now become more complex. When you look at the oil needed in these newer engines, viscosity levels are now becoming a lot thinner. This results in reduced internal drag and more power getting to the wheels.
The launch of Versimax HD15 5W-30 for Volvo VDS-5 applications, with full OEM approval means that Morris Lubricants’ customers have access to the correct high quality engine oils to keep their engine investment operating reliably. This official approval gives reassurance and complete peace of mind.”
The new Versimax HD15 5W-30 is part of the Versimax range, a series of high quality, heavy-duty diesel engine oils. As well covering a wide selection of Volvo engines, the Versimax range also includes heavy-duty engine oils for MAN, Mack, Scania, Cummins, Caterpillar, Mercedes Benz, DAF, Renault and many more. The Versimax range is designed to help reduce downtime, improve fuel efficiency and contribute to the reduction in engine emissions.
Versimax HD15 5W-30 from Morris Lubricants is readily available in 25 litre drums, 205 litre barrels and in bulk supply.