Most OTS synthetics now III+ instead of III?

[LoneRanger]

Are most of the synthetics that were Group III, now using Grp III+ improved base stocks?

 

[Quattro Pete]

I would not make such blanket broad statement.

 

[gregk24]

What are Group III + ?

 

[Quattro Pete]

Originally Posted By: gregk24
What are Group III + ?

Bases such as VISOM or GTL.

 

[aquariuscsm]

What's the + in grp III+? A dash of some ingredient? A little dab of pao or ester?

 

[Tom NJ]

Group III+ is an unofficial term for a Group III base oil with a VI of 130 or more. The VI is a good indication of the degree of hydrocracking.

Tom NJ

 

[jrustles]

Traditionally, the groups are categorized based on the following properties:

GrI
> 0.03% sulfur
VI 80-120

GrII
>90% saturates,
< 0.03% sulfur
VI 80-120

GrIII
>90% saturates
VI 120+

So GrI and II are only differentiated by saturation and sulfur content (corresponding to level of refinement)

GrII and GrIII are differentiated only by VI


TomNJ thanks for putting it out there that the + is 'unofficial' and III+ are the higher VI GrIII's but what are GrII+ referring to? Just the higher end GrII's? (110-120?)

 

[Tom NJ]

Originally Posted By: jrustles
TomNJ thanks for putting it out there that the + is 'unofficial' and III+ are the higher VI GrIII's but what are GrII+ referring to? Just the higher end GrII's? (110-120?)


Exactly, VI of 110 to 120. While II+ and III+ are both unofficial, they are widely used in the industry, including on Data Sheets and price lists.

Tom NJ

 

[jrustles]

Very good to know, thank you again Tom!