Base Oil: The Essential Ingredient in Lubricant Formulation
Base oil is a key ingredient in the formulation of lubricants that are used in a wide range of industrial and automotive applications. It is the foundation upon which the performance of a lubricant is built, and the quality and characteristics of the base oil determine the overall effectiveness of the lubricant. In this article, we will explore the important role of base oil in lubricant formulation, the different types of base oils, and their properties.
What is Base Oil?
Base oil is a refined crude oil component that is used as a base stock in the production of lubricants. It is a complex mixture of hydrocarbons that is produced by refining crude oil, and it typically makes up between 70% and 95% of a finished lubricant. The characteristics of base oil, such as its viscosity, volatility, and oxidative stability, play a critical role in determining the performance of a lubricant.