Understanding Natural Gas Oil vs Full Synthetic Oil

When it comes to the lubricating oils used in engines, there is often confusion about the composition and quality differences between natural gas oil and full synthetic oil. To clarify, there is no such thing as ldquo;natural gas oil.rdquo; Instead, most synthetic oil is derived from natural gas or petroleum, and the differences lie in the refinement process and the additives used to improve their performance.

The Distinction Between Synthetic and Conventional Oils

Most synthetic oils are made from natural gas or gassified petroleum products. This process often involves refining the raw material to achieve a higher purity and a lower concentration of impurities. Conventional oils, on the other hand, are derived from crude oil, which has a more diverse chemical makeup.

Full synthetic oils are highly refined and contain fewer impurities, leading to a higher flashpoint and reduced sludge and carbon build-up. These oils are used in advanced applications such as turbine engines, where they can cost six times as much as cheap crude-based oils. The higher cost is justified by the superior performance and longevity of synthetic oils.

The Role of Additives in Synthetic Oils

Both natural gas-based and full synthetic oils use a variety of additives to enhance their performance. These additives play a crucial role in protecting the engine, improving fuel efficiency, and extending the life of the oil.

Common Additives in Full Synthetic Oils

Full synthetic oils typically contain a range of additives such as:

Anti-wear agents: These protect metal surfaces from wear and tear during engine operation. Dispersants: These help to keep contaminants suspended in the oil, preventing them from forming sludge. Cleaning agents: These keep the engine internals clean, reducing the risk of wear and tear. Anti-foaming agents: These prevent the oil from forming foam, which can lead to poor lubrication. Viscosity modifiers: These allow the oil to maintain its viscosity under varying temperature conditions. Corrosion inhibitors: These protect the engine from corrosion and rust.

Additive Content and Composition Differences

While both types of oils use these additives, the composition and concentration can differ. Full synthetic oils often have a higher concentration of additives tailored to their superior refining process, which provides better protection and performance.

For instance, PAO (Poly-alpha-olefin) is a key base stock in many synthetic oils. PAOs are 100% synthetic compounds and are highly refined. They have excellent viscosity and compatibility properties, making them ideal for high-performance engines.

In contrast, natural gas-based oils may contain fewer of these additives due to their base stock being a gassified petroleum product. While they are still effective lubricants, they may not offer the same level of protection or performance as full synthetic oils.

Synthetic Lubricants and Their Market Share

The synthetic lubricants market is growing rapidly, with full synthetic oils accounting for about 4% of the global market. PAGs (Polyalkylene glycols) represent about 24% of the synthetic lubricant market, while other synthetic types, such as esters, represent a significant portion as well.

Base Stocks in Synthetic Oils

The primary base stocks used in synthetic oils include:

PAO: Primarily used in high-performance applications due to its excellent viscosity and temperature stability. Synthesis Ester: Derived from the reaction of an acid and an alcohol, these esters are often used in high-temperature applications. Polyalkylene Glycol (PAG): These are used in a wide range of applications due to their water solubility and excellent load-carrying capacity.

The choice of base stock and the specific additives used can determine the quality and performance of the synthetic oil, making it a critical factor to consider when choosing an oil for your vehicle or machinery.

Conclusion

While natural gas oil and full synthetic oil are both effective lubricants, full synthetic oils offer superior performance and protection due to their highly refined base stocks and a higher concentration of additives. Understanding the additives and their content in both types of oils can help you make an informed decision about which oil is best for your vehicle or machinery.

When choosing an oil, consider the specific demands of your application and the performance standards you need to meet. For high-performance engines or applications requiring longevity and protection, full synthetic oils are generally recommended.