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Volatility is a measure of how easily an oil evaporates at high temperatures. The higher the volatility, the more easily the oil evaporates. This can cause problems because it can lead to deposits forming on engine parts, which can eventually cause engine damage. Engine oils with low volatility are therefore generally considered to be better for engines. Volatility can be measured in a number of ways, but the most common method is to measure the oil’s boiling point. The higher the boiling point, the lower the volatility.

There are a number of factors that can affect an oil’s volatility, including the type of oil used, the way it’s made, and the conditions under which it’s used. For example, synthetic oils typically have lower volatility than petroleum-based oils. And oils that are designed for high-performance engines usually have higher volatility than those designed for more mundane applications.

Engine oils can also be classified according to their viscosity, which is a measure of how thick they are. The thicker an oil, the slower it flows and the higher its viscosity. High-viscosity oils are generally better for high-performance applications because they can provide better protection against wear and tear. However, they can also cause problems because they can make it difficult for an engine to start in cold weather.

Finally, engine oils can also be classified according to their additives. Additives are chemicals that are added to the oil to improve its performance in some way. Common additives include anti-wear agents, detergents, and dispersants. Each additive serves a specific purpose, and the right combination of additives can help an engine run more smoothly and efficiently.

When it comes to choosing the right engine oil for your car, it’s important to consider all of these factors. The type of oil you use, the way it’s made, and the conditions under which it will be used can all affect its performance. And, of course, you’ll also want to make sure that you choose an oil that’s appropriate for your car’s engine. With so many different types of engine oils on the market, it can be tough to know where to start. But if you keep these factors in mind, you should be able to find an oil that’s right for your car.

Volatility is the property of the lightest fractions of the engine oil to evaporate at high temperatures, which is expressed as a percentage of loss from evaporation after heating the engine oil for one hour at 250 °C.

To determine the vaporizability, or volatility, of motor oil, the Knock method is used. If 850 grams of engine oil are left after heating 1,000 grams of engine oil at 250 °C for one hour, this means that the volatility is 15% (minus 150 grams).

According to ACEA requirements, A1/B1 class oils must not volatilize more than 15%, A3/B3, A3/B4, A5/B5, C1, C2, C3, E4, E6, E7, E9 must not exceed 13%, and C4 oils must not volatilize more than 11% or equal to 11%. If the engine oil is too volatile, it will have to be filled more often and therefore the oil consumption will be high.

To learn more about volatility, watch this video on car engine oil.

How does car engine oil work?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Engine oil becomes dirty over time as it collects debris, sludge and other contaminants from within the engine. These contaminations enter the oil through a variety of pathways such as leakages, blow-by or fuel dilution. Dirt can also be introduced to the oil when the engine is running by small particles that get sucked in due to air flow while driving. Lastly, moisture build-up in engine oil can lead to rust and corrosion which further dirties the oil. Therefore, it is important to regularly check and change your engine’s oil so that it remains clean and functional for optimal performance of your vehicle.
The most common symptoms of dirty engine oil are a decrease in performance, an increase in fuel consumption, and excessive amounts of smoke coming from the exhaust. Dirty oil can also cause a knocking or tapping noise to come from the engine as it runs. These symptoms should not be ignored as they could lead to major mechanical issues if left unchecked. It is important to check your vehicle’s oil regularly and have it changed when necessary. Doing so will help ensure that your engine stays healthy and runs smoothly for years to come.
Engine oil turns black quickly due to the heat generated by the combustion process in an engine. Because of this, the oil becomes contaminated with particles from fuel and chemicals from condensation in the crankcase. Additionally, as the oil circulates throughout the engine it picks up additional contaminants like dust and dirt particles that can cause discoloration. Over time, these contaminants cause oxidation of the oil which leads to a darkening of its color. This build-up is referred to as soot or sludge and can damage your engine if not removed regularly. Regularly scheduled oil changes are essential for maintaining a healthy engine and preventing premature wear.
Engine oil can get dirty quickly, depending on the environment in which it is used. In general, engine oil should be changed every 3 months or 3,000 miles (4,828 kilometers) to ensure its effectiveness. Factors such as driving habits and terrain will also affect how quickly engine oil gets dirty. For example, driving off-road or in dusty environments can cause dirt and other particles to enter the engine more easily than if you were driving primarily on paved roads. The type of oil used also affects how often it needs to be replaced; synthetic oils typically last longer than traditional motor oils. Ultimately, regular maintenance is key to keeping your vehicle running smoothly and efficiently for many years to come!
David Muench (Carnes Mechanical)

David Muench (Carnes Mechanical)

Hey, I’m David. I’ve worked in a cars store for 6 years. I write reviews and guides, helping people to choose the most suitable technicals and best product for them. I’m happy to finally share my knowledge of the industry here, on CarnesMechanical.

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