Method for improving engine fuel efficiency

Abstract

A method for improving friction reduction and fuel efficiency, while maintaining or improving wear protection, in an engine lubricated with a lubricating oil by using as the lubricating oil a formulated oil. The formulated oil has a composition comprising a lubricating oil base stock as a major component; and a detergent mixture comprising a first detergent having a TBN of less than about 100, and at least one other detergent different from said first detergent, as a minor component. The composition contains greater than about 4 weight percent of the first detergent, based on the total weight of the formulated oil. Friction reduction and fuel efficiency are improved and wear protection is maintained or improved as compared to friction reduction, fuel efficiency and wear protection achieved using a lubricating engine oil containing a detergent mixture having other than the first detergent having a TBN of less than about 100.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61 / 740,555 filed Dec. 21, 2012, herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE[0002]This disclosure relates to improving friction reduction and fuel efficiency, while maintaining or improving wear protection, in an engine lubricated with a lubricating oil by including a detergent mixture containing at least one low total base number (TBN) detergent, in the lubricating oil.BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE[0003]Fuel efficiency requirements for passenger vehicles are becoming increasingly more stringent. New legislation in the United States and European Union within the past few years has set fuel economy and emissions targets not readily achievable with today's vehicle and lubricant technology.[0004]To address these increasing standards, automotive original equipment manufacturers are demanding better fuel economy as a lubricant-related performan...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

This patent relates to a method and a composition for improving friction reduction, fuel efficiency, and wear protection in an engine lubricated with a lubricating oil. The method involves using a detergent mixture containing at least one low TBN detergent, or using a formulated oil containing a lubricating oil base stock and a detergent mixture containing a low TBN detergent. This results in improved friction reduction, fuel efficiency, and wear protection compared to using a detergent mixture with other detergents. The composition contains at least 4% of the low TBN detergent by weight. This method and composition provide improved performance without sacrificing engine durability.

Problems solved by technology

However, this approach is now reaching the limits of current equipment capabilities and specifications.

However these additives often bring with them detrimental effects such as increased deposit formation, seals impacts, or they out-compete the anti-wear components for limited surface sites, thereby not allowing the formation of an anti-wear film, causing increased wear.

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