Frequently Asked Questions on
Use of Balmerol Automotive Grades
Q.What is TBN?
TBN stands for "Total Base Number." When fuel containing hydrocarbons, sulphur, and nitrogen is burned, it produces water vapor and oxides of sulphur and nitrogen (SOx and NOx). These oxides react with water to form sulphurous and nitrous acids, which degrade the oil and corrode engine parts. TBN indicates the oil's ability to neutralize these acids due to the detergent and dispersant additives, thereby protecting the engine from corrosion.
Q. What is Flash Point? Why is it important?
The flash point is the lowest temperature at which a flammable liquid can form an ignitable mixture in the air. It is important because it indicates the safety and contamination level of a lubricant. A lower flash point can suggest contamination with light oils or fuel, making the lubricant unsafe for use.
Q.What is Pour Point? Why is it important?
The pour point is the lowest temperature at which a lubricant remains fluid and can still be pumped. It is crucial for ensuring that the lubricant can function in cold conditions. Pour Point Depressants are added to reduce the pour point of lubricants.
Q.What is Viscosity & Viscosity Index?
Viscosity measures a liquid's resistance to flow, varying inversely with temperature. The Viscosity Index (VI) indicates the rate of change of viscosity with temperature. A higher VI means less variation in viscosity across temperatures, improving performance.
Q.How are Multigrade oils superior to Monograde oils?
Multigrade oils, such as 5W-30 and 15W-40, can be used across a wide temperature range, unlike Monograde oils which are season-specific. Multigrade oils contain viscosity modifiers, offering better performance, protection, and fuel economy.
Q.What is the difference between 10W-30, 15W-40, and 20W-40 oils?
The difference lies in viscosity. Oils with lower numbers (e.g., 10W) are thinner than those with higher numbers (e.g., 40). Multigrade oils adapt to temperature changes, providing optimal performance in both cold and warm conditions.
Q.The oil drain plug on my car does not get tight. What can I do? Can it do any harm if not tightened properly?
The threads might be stripped. You can replace the oil pan or use an oversized self-tapping oil plug to create new threads. If not tightened properly, it can lead to oil leaks.
Q.I took off my oil cap and noticed a white mucus type material. What is this and is it harmful to my engine?
This indicates sludge build-up, often due to irregular oil changes. Sludge increases friction, clogs filters, and reduces engine life. Regular oil changes every 6 months or 6000-8000 KMs can prevent this.
Q. How should I take a fresh charge of engine oil?
Drain used oil when warm. Drive 5-7 KMs, wait 5-10 minutes, and allow the oil to drain. Check for contaminants like water or sludge, flush the engine if needed, and then add fresh oil.
Q. What will happen if I use 20W-40 instead of the OEM-advised 15W-40?
The primary difference is in viscosity at lower temperatures. 15W-40 circulates better in cold conditions. Check the OEM manual for allowances in warmer climates to avoid potential damage.
Q. In my vehicle, I am advised to use 5W-30 oil. Can I use 10W-30 oil?
5W-30 has lower viscosity at low temperatures, beneficial in cold climates. In warmer temperatures, both oils perform similarly. Follow the OEM's recommendation for optimal performance.
Q. What is top-up? How does it happen?
Top-up refers to the addition of oil to replace what's lost due to high temperatures causing burning or mechanical issues like gasket leaks or defective scrapper rings.
Q. How does the oil travel up in the cylinder sleeve? What is a scrapper ring?
The scrapper ring, the topmost ring on the piston, scrapes excess oil back down, preventing it from entering the combustion chamber.
Q. What is ring sticking?
Ring sticking occurs when carbon, dirt, or sludge prevents the piston rings from moving freely, leading to high oil consumption, poor compression, and oil degradation.
Q. Are blow-by gases harmful?
Yes, they contain unburnt fuel and harmful oxides, diluting and degrading the lubricant, potentially causing engine seizure.
Q. What could cause blue smoke to come from my car’s tailpipe? Is the engine oil bad?
Blue smoke indicates burning oil due to worn piston rings, allowing oil into the combustion chamber, which can severely damage the engine.
Q. What is sludge in used engine oil and how is it formed?
Sludge forms from carbon and soot build-up due to extended oil use, poor quality oil, or contaminants. It can clog filters and reduce engine life.
Q. How does a lubricant become coloured? Does colour impact performance?
Lubricants are naturally coloured by base oils and additives. Dyes can be added for aesthetic purposes, but colour does not affect performance.
Q. How can you detect water contamination in a lubricant? Is it harmful?
Water contamination makes oil look hazy or turbid, degrading its properties and causing additive hydrolysis. Proper storage and maintenance can prevent this.
Q. I find slight deposition at the bottom of the pack of engine oil. What is this? Can I use the oil?
Slight deposition may be due to foreign particles, inadequate mixing, wax, or improper storage. Decant or filter the oil before use. For heavy deposits, contact QA Lab.
Q. Why should I use Multigrade Gear Oils?
Multigrade Gear Oils contain Viscosity Index Improvers, working effectively across temperatures, providing better gear protection and longer drain intervals.
Q. Why should I use Coolant, not plain water in the radiator of my vehicle?
Coolant contains Ethylene Glycol, which improves freezing and boiling points, protects against corrosion, and is compatible with engine materials.
Q. Can I mix Coolant or Brake Fluid with Engine Oil?
No, they are not miscible and will form a heterogeneous mixture, rendering the fluids ineffective for their intended purposes.
Q. Can I get an oil tested by Balmer Lawrie in case of complaint?
Yes, samples can be sent to QA Laboratories for free testing, with a response time of about one week from receipt.
Q. Can I get a free replacement in case of complaint?
[The answer to this question was not provided in the text, but typically such policies would be specific to the company's warranty and customer service policies. Please consult Balmer Lawrie's customer service for specific details.]
