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Properties of Lubricant-Based Oil

Lubricant-based oils are used for friction reduction. Many auto mechanics and general consumers use lubricant oils on a regular basis. However, many people don't put much thought into the oil's chemical properties.

  1. Viscosity

    • Lubricant-based oils need to be able to flow from one point to another. Certain climate conditions can impact the oil's viscosity, or its ability to flow. For instance, extremely cold temperatures can cause certain lubricants to thicken and lose their viscosity. Therefore, viscosity is an important lubricant property that must be considered when selecting a lube oil.

    Flash and Pour Points

    • The flash and pour points of lubricant-based oils refer to temperature conditions. The pour point is the temperature point at which the lubricant will stop flowing, and the flash point is the temperature point at which the oil will burn. Some lubricants have a flash point of above 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

    Basic Type

    • Lubricant-based oils are made from different substances and compounds. "Basic type" is the phrase used to describe what the oil is made of. Many lubricant-based oils are synthetic, meaning they have been created in a lab environment. Other lubes may contain natural elements such as minerals.

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