Today, there are hundreds of synthetic lubricants, all designed for specific uses. Some of them are not compatible with paints, seals, and gaskets used in modern machines and equipment. Many of these lubricants are not compatible with other synthetics or mineral lubricants and cannot be mixed.
Additionally, some of these fluids are not compatible with the materials used by equipment manufacturers to make clutches and components for brakes and hydraulic hoses.
Therefore, before making any changes to the type of lubricant, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with the lubricant, including its advantages and disadvantages, as well as to make a comparison with the high-performance oils available on the market.
Information on mineral or synthetic lubricants can be obtained by directly contacting the services of a specialized oil advisor. Contrary to popular belief, equipment sellers and oil distributors know very little about lubricants, in addition to conveying lubricant recommendations given by machinery manufacturers, and are not a reliable source of information that can be used for screening of synthetic lubricants.
The most important aspect to consider is that the use of synthetic oil can be justified only if:
- It solves an operational problem that a mineral cannot, such as extreme operating temperatures or compatibility requirements
- It sufficiently reduces operational costs to offset the high initial costs for your acquisition.
Once the switch to synthetic has been made, it should be treated the same way as a mineral lubricant.
In conclusion, oil levels should be checked periodically, filters inspected or changed regularly, and samples should be taken at a set frequency and sent to a competent analysis laboratory. For those who insist on extending oil change intervals when synthetic lubricants are used, lubricant analysis is of particular importance because it warns of increases in component wear rates, contamination levels, and changes in lubricant viscosity.