API SP Category

The American Petroleum Institute (API) has introduced the API SP performance category in response to advancements in engine technology. API SP sets new motor oil standards designed to meet the more stringent performance requirements of next-generation motor technologies, including smaller engine displacements, gasoline direct injection (GDI), turbocharging, and gasoline particulate filters (GPFs).

API SP motor oils offer several advantages over the previous API SN and API SN PLUS categories:

• Low-Speed Pre-Ignition (LSPI) Protection: Provides protection against LSPI formation, which can occur in gasoline engines.
• Engine and Timing Chain Wear Protection: Helps prevent wear on the engine and timing chain.
• High-Temperature Deposit Protection: Offers enhanced protection for pistons and turbochargers.
• Sludge and Varnish Control: Improves control over sludge and varnish formation under severe conditions.
• Exhaust Emission System Compatibility: Compatible with modern exhaust emission systems.
• Extended Oil Change Intervals: Provides better oxidation stability for longer oil change intervals.
• Corrosion Protection: Offers superior protection against corrosion.

ILSAC GF-6 Category

The International Lubricants Standardization and Approval Committee (ILSAC) has introduced the GF-6 performance category to enhance motor oil performance and provide a better lubrication solution. ILSAC GF-6 is divided into two subcategories: GF-6A and GF-6B.

Key Features of ILSAC GF-6A:

• Backward Compatibility: Compatible with older engines.
• LSPI Protection: Provides enhanced durability to reduce LSPI formation.
• Fuel Economy: Offers good fuel economy.
• Viscosity Grades: Covers SAE 0W-20, 5W-20, 0W-30, 5W-30, and 10W-30 viscosity grades.
• HTHS Value: Requires a minimum HTHS value of 2.6 mPa-s for SAE XW-20 motor oils and 2.9 mPa-s for SAE XW-30 motor oils.

Key Features of ILSAC GF-6B:

• Non-Compatibility with Older Engines: Not compatible with older engines.
• LSPI Protection: Provides improved durability to reduce LSPI formation.
• Fuel Economy: Offers better fuel economy.
• Viscosity Grade: Only covers SAE 0W-16 viscosity grade.
• HTHS Value: Has a minimum HTHS value of 2.3 mPa-s.

API SP and ILSAC GF-6 performance categories offer advanced features for users seeking high performance and reliability in their motor oils. These standards are crucial for adapting to next-generation motor technologies and extending engine life.