Due to the wide range of cars and different industries, we see a variety of gear (gearboxes). From cement production to cars and motorcycles moving are dependent on these gears. Of course, this difference is due to various variables such as speed, load, material, application, and... The first step in choosing a good gear oil is to use the proper base oil to produce the oil. Many major equipment manufacturers (OEMs) declare requirements for oil production, which divide into five categories.
Viscosity
Good oil must have a viscosity commensurate with the speed, material, and practical application of the gear to preserve the lubrication film formed on it. But at the same time, it should not waste the energy of the gearboxes.
Oxidation stability
Antioxidant additives help to increase the oxidation stability of gear oil. But at the same time, we should not overlook the stability against the oxidation of the base oil. Because the more resistant the base oil, the longer the life of the additives.
Thermal stability
Synthetic oils have a higher heat resistance than mineral oils. This factor increases the life of these oils, especially in gears that move quickly and are prone to temperature rise.
Compressibility properties
EP additive is one of the requirements of gear oil. These materials prevent wear and erosion.
Detachability of water from oil
One of the leading roles of gear lubricant remains the rapid detachment of water from oil. However, in some applications, it is necessary to consume oils that produce an emulsion in the existence of water and absorb it. Consequently, it does not enter the system.
Benefits of applying synthetic gear oil
Due to the high variety of modern gears, their function has also changed, so they need more resistant oils to harsh conditions. The use of synthetic base oils produces the type and amount of additives different compared to the production of gear oils that use mineral base oils and at the same time that oils carry out a proper function.
Synthetic oils typically experience better lubrication, protecting gears more by forming a suitable lubrication film, and also reducing erosion particles and extending gear life. Another feature of synthetic oils is the improvement of the viscosity index, which means the stability of the oil against temperature changes is improved, which in addition to reducing the need for additives, maintains better efficiency for the gears.
Ultimately, the intense resistance of these oils to oxidation and high heat should be noted. This property makes the oil less prone to oxidation and thermal degradation. Naturally, the problems caused by rising temperatures occur rarely for these oils, including the reduction of sediments and the formation of less sludge. These properties increase the life of gear oils and their operating hours.