Description of Base Oil SN500:
Base oil SN-500 is a light-grade, mineral oil that is a popular choice for global lubricant manufacturers. It falls under the American Petroleum Institute (API) Group I category, which indicates that it is derived from crude oil that has undergone solvent refining and dewaxing processes to remove impurities and enhance its lubricating properties.
This refining process helps to create a base oil with a consistent structure and predictable performance characteristics. However, compared to higher-grade synthetic oils, Group I base oils typically have a lower viscosity index and may not offer the same level of performance under extreme temperatures or heavy loads.
Base Oil SN 500 HISTORY
The exact origin of SN-500 base oil is difficult to pinpoint, but its history is intertwined with the development of mineral oil refining in general. Here’s what we can infer:
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Mineral Oil Refining Timeline: Refining crude oil to obtain lubricants has been around since the mid-19th century, following the discovery of oil in the United States. SN-500, as a product of solvent refining, likely emerged sometime after this period.
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Solvent Refining: This technique, a key step in creating SN-500, became prominent in the 1930s. It involves using solvents to remove impurities from crude oil, resulting in a cleaner and more stable base oil.
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API Base Oil Groups: The American Petroleum Institute (API) introduced a classification system for base oils in the late 20th century. SN-500 falls under Group I, a conventionally refined mineral oil with specific properties.
While there’s no documented record of SN-500’s specific invention, its existence likely coincides with the widespread adoption of solvent refining and the establishment of API base oil categories.
Production Process of SN 500
SN-500 production refines crude oil into a high-quality base stock. Here’s the gist:
- Vacuum distillation: Isolates the desired oil fraction from crude.
- Solvent refining: Removes impurities using solvents (characteristic of Group I base oils).
- Dewaxing: Ensures the oil flows easily at cold temperatures by removing waxes.
- Optional Hydrofinishing: Further purifies the oil for enhanced performance.
- Filtration & Finishing: Polishes the oil to meet exact specifications.
This refined SN-500 base oil then becomes the foundation for various lubricants.
Application and uses of Base Oil SN 500
SN-500 base oil is a workhorse of the lubrication industry, serving as a key component in a wide range of lubricants for automotive, industrial, and even specialty applications. Its versatility and cost-effectiveness make it a popular choice for manufacturers seeking a reliable base stock. Here’s a detailed breakdown of its applications and uses, along with some additional insights:
Automotive and Industrial Lubrication
- Engine Oils: SN-500 is a valuable base stock for formulating engine oils in passenger cars and light-duty commercial vehicles operating under moderate conditions. While not ideal for high-performance engines or extreme temperatures, it offers a cost-effective solution for everyday vehicles.
- Transmission Fluids: SN-500 contributes to the smooth operation of automatic and manual transmissions by minimizing friction between moving parts. This ensures efficient power transmission and protects gears from wear.
- Gear Oils: In non-extreme applications, SN-500 finds use in gear lubricants for transmissions, differentials, and gearboxes. It provides sufficient lubrication to minimize wear and protect critical gear components during moderate operation.
Metalworking
- Metal Working Fluids: The lubricating and cooling properties of SN-500 make it suitable for formulating cutting and grinding fluids used extensively in metalworking. These fluids play a vital role by reducing friction, preventing overheating of tools and workpieces, and flushing away metal chips. SN-500’s cooling efficiency helps maintain dimensional accuracy and improve machining productivity.
Specialty Applications of Base Oil SN 500
- Greases: SN-500 can serve as a base stock for greases used in various industrial applications where moderate performance is adequate. These semi-solid lubricants offer extended lubrication in applications like slow-speed bearings or sliding mechanisms that don’t experience extreme pressure or heat.
- Rubber Processing: The rubber industry utilizes SN-500 as a processing oil to improve the flow and characteristics of rubber compounds during production. It enhances the flowability of the rubber mix during processes like extrusion or calendaring, leading to a more uniform and consistent final product. Unlike some other process oils, SN-500 is compatible with many rubber formulations without compromising the cured rubber’s physical properties.
- Textile Processing: Some textile processing applications leverage SN-500 as a lubricant and dye carrier to optimize process efficiency and product quality. It acts as a lubricant for fibers, reducing friction and improving yarn quality. Additionally, SN-500 can function as a carrier for dyes, promoting even dye distribution and consistent color in the final fabric. However, due to potential staining issues, the use of SN-500 in textile processing might require careful selection and may not be suitable for all types of dyes or fabrics.
Considerations for Use of Base Oil SN 500
While SN-500 offers a compelling balance of performance and cost, it’s categorized as a Group I base oil. For high-performance engines, heavy-duty machinery, or extreme operating environments, synthetic or higher-grade mineral oils (Group II, III, and IV) might be more suitable due to their superior properties in terms of oxidation resistance, viscosity index, and extreme temperature performance.
The specific formulation of a lubricant using SN-500 is tailored to the intended application and desired performance characteristics. Additive packages are meticulously blended with the base oil to achieve specific properties like wear protection, oxidation resistance, and viscosity modification. These additives play a crucial role in fine-tuning the lubricant’s performance to meet the demanding requirements of each application.
In conclusion, SN-500 remains a relevant base oil in various industrial sectors due to its affordability and suitability for moderate-duty applications. Its versatility and ability to act as a base for different lubricant types make it a valuable component in the smooth operation of machinery across various industries.
Different between base oil sn150 and sn500
Within the realm of lubricant formulation, SN-150 and SN-500 base oils occupy distinct niches. While both belong to the American Petroleum Institute (API) Group I category, signifying conventionally refined mineral oils, their fundamental difference lies in viscosity, a critical property impacting application suitability.
Viscosity
- SN-150: This base oil exhibits a lower kinematic viscosity, typically ranging from 5.0 to 7.0 centistokes (cSt) at 100°C and 24 to 28 cSt at 40°C. Lower viscosity translates to a thinner oil with superior cold-start flow characteristics.
- SN-500: In contrast, SN-500 boasts a higher viscosity, around 10.1-11 cSt at 100°C and 94-98 cSt at 40°C. This translates to a thicker oil that provides a more robust lubricating film at elevated temperatures.
Performance
- SN-150: Due to its advantageous cold-start properties, SN-150 finds favor in applications demanding excellent low-temperature performance. It’s a preferred base stock for formulating low-viscosity engine oils specifically designed for passenger cars operating in frigid environments. Additionally, SN-150 can be found in hydraulic fluids and some light-duty industrial lubricants.
- SN-500: The higher viscosity of SN-500 makes it ideal for applications where a thicker lubricating film is paramount. This characteristic positions it as a popular choice for formulating engine oils for light trucks and commercial vehicles subjected to moderate operating conditions. It’s also employed in industrial oils for gearboxes and transmissions and as a base stock for specific greases.
Selection Considerations
While viscosity is a primary differentiator, it’s crucial to recognize that both SN-150 and SN-500 belong to API Group I. For superior performance in extreme conditions or high-performance engines, synthetic or higher-grade mineral oils (Groups II, III, and IV) offer superior properties like oxidation resistance and a wider viscosity index.
Ultimately, the selection of the optimal base oil (SN-150 or SN-500) hinges on the specific application and the desired performance profile. Lubricant manufacturers meticulously blend the chosen base oil with targeted additives to achieve the requisite properties for the final product.
In conclusion, a comprehensive understanding of the viscosity characteristics and performance implications of SN-150 and SN-500 base oils empowers lubricant formulators to make informed decisions, ensuring optimal performance across diverse applications.
Base Oil SN 500 PACKING
Drums
These are the most common types of packaging for SN-500, typically made of steel and available in new or used condition. Their standard capacity is around 180 kilograms (kg), making them suitable for smaller shipments or on-site storage.
ISO Tanks
Designed for large-volume transportation, ISO tanks are cylindrical containers that can hold a substantial amount of SN-500, typically around 20 metric tons (20,000 kg). They offer a secure and efficient way to transport SN-500 over long distances.
Flexi Tanks
These are collapsible bladders made from durable materials like synthetic rubber. They provide a space-saving alternative to ISO tanks for bulk transportation, typically holding around 20 metric tons (20,000 kg) of SN-500. Flexi tanks can be loaded into standard shipping containers, optimizing transportation efficiency.
Bulk Shipments
In certain scenarios, particularly for very large quantities, SN-500 can be transported in bulk through pipelines or directly loaded onto barges or ships. This method is most economical for substantial volumes and specific transportation routes.
Safety Tips
- Wear gloves, safety glasses, and overalls when handling.
- Work in ventilated areas and avoid inhaling or ingesting the oil.
- Wash skin thoroughly after contact to prevent irritation.
- Store in sealed containers, in cool, well-ventilated areas.
- Contain spills and dispose of them responsibly according to regulations.
- SN-500 is combustible, keep it away from flames and ignition sources.
- Always refer to the supplier’s Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for detailed safety information.
Specification of RAHA oil Base Oil SN 500
| Property | Unit | Test Method | Specification | Typical Result |
| Appearance | - | Visual | C & B | C & B |
| Color | - | ASTM D-1500 | Max 2 | 1.8 |
| Density at 15°C | kg/m3 | ASTM D-4052 | - | 893 |
| Kinematic viscosity at 40°C | mm2/s (cSt) | ASTM D-445 | - | 108 |
| Kinematic viscosity at 100°C | mm2/s (cSt) | ASTM D-445 | Min 10.8 | 10.9 |
| Viscosity index | mm2/s (cSt) | ASTM D-2270 | Min 87 | 88 |
| Flash point | °C | ASTM D-92 | Min 235 | 245 |
| Pour point | °C | ASTM D-97 | Max -3 | -4 |
| Noack at 250°C | wt % | ASTM-D-5800 | Max -5 | 3.5 |
| Sulfur | wt % | ASTM D-4951 | - | 1.2 |
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