Lubricants serve an essential function in reducing friction between moving parts, and their performance depends greatly on maintaining the right thickness across different temperatures. Viscosity improvers are added to ensure this consistency.
By modifying flow characteristics, these additives help maintain proper lubrication in various operating conditions, supporting both equipment performance and durability.
Maintaining stability at high temperatures
At raised temperatures, lubricants tend to thin out, reducing their protective capability. A viscosity improver counters this by increasing resistance to thinning, which supports stable lubrication in engines, gearboxes, and hydraulic systems during extended operation or under heavy loads.
Improving cold weather performance
Lubricants can become thicker in cold conditions, making it harder for them to circulate quickly. Viscosity improvers work alongside other additives to maintain flow, allowing the lubricant to reach critical moving parts quickly during start-up in low-temperature environments.
Extending lubricant service life
By maintaining consistent thickness across temperature ranges, viscosity improvers reduce the frequency of breakdowns in lubricant performance. This stability helps extend the time between oil changes and supports consistent protection throughout the service interval.
Supporting efficiency in automotive engines
Modern engines operate under a variety of speeds and loads. Viscosity improvers contribute to maintaining a balance between fuel efficiency and wear protection by allowing the lubricant to adapt to changing operating conditions without losing its protective qualities.
Improving performance in industrial machinery
Heavy-duty equipment often operates under fluctuating temperatures during production cycles. Adding viscosity improvers helps maintain lubricant performance, reducing wear in gears, bearings, and hydraulic pumps even under varying load and temperature conditions.
Protecting against mechanical wear
When the lubricant maintains its optimal flow characteristics, a protective film remains between moving surfaces. Viscosity improvers help sustain this film under challenging conditions, reducing direct metal-to-metal contact and limiting wear.
Improving multi-grade oil capabilities
Viscosity improvers are a fundamental component in multi-grade lubricants, which are designed to work effectively across a wide temperature spectrum. This makes them suitable for applications where operating conditions shift between hot and cold.
Hydraulic systems depend on stable fluid properties for precise operation. Viscosity improvers contribute to maintaining consistent system pressure and response, reducing the risk of performance variations caused by temperature changes.