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Viscosity Modifiers & VI Improvers

Viscosity Modifiers (VMs) and Viscosity Index Improvers (VIIs) are essential additives in modern lubricants. They enhance viscosity behavior across a wide temperature range, improving flow at low temperatures while maintaining adequate thickness at high temperatures. This ensures equipment protection, fuel efficiency, and smooth operation.

Categories

  • Poly Iso Butylenes (PIB)
  • Alkyl Methacrylate-Based VI Improvers (PMA)
  • OCP-Based VI Improvers (Olefin Copolymers)
  • Star-Shaped Styrenic Polymer

1. Poly Iso Butylenes (PIB) – Polybutene Compounds

Function

  • Act as ashless, shear-stable base stocks.
  • Improve high and low-temperature viscosity behavior.

Technical Specs

  • Molecular Weight: 900 – 2500
  • Viscosity (100°C): 225 – 4500 cSt

Key Benefits

  • Exceptional viscosity control.
  • High thermal and oxidative stability.
  • Superior shear stability – resists viscosity breakdown under mechanical stress.

Applications

  • Engine oils
  • Gear oils
  • Hydraulic fluids

2. Alkyl Methacrylate-Based VI Improvers (PMA)

2.1 For Hydraulic Fluids and Gear Oils

  • Type: Alkyl methacrylate polymer
  • Dosage: 1–10 wt%
  • Blending Temp: Max 90°C
  • Performance Features: High shear stability under pressure (e.g., Bosch injectors), enhanced cold flow (low Brookfield viscosity), promotes demulsibility and hydraulic stability.
  • Applications: Multi-grade hydraulic fluids, gear oils requiring high viscosity index

2.2 For Multigrade Engine Oils

  • Type: PMA polymer for high viscosity formulations
  • Dosage: 1–10 wt%
  • Blending Temp: Max 90°C
  • Performance Features: Excellent base oil compatibility, maintains oil film thickness at extreme temperatures, complies with industry standards for engine protection.
  • Applications: Multigrade engine oils (e.g., 5W-30, 10W-40)

2.3 For High VI Gear Oils (e.g., 75W-90)

  • Type: High-performance PMA polymer
  • Dosage: 1–25 wt%
  • Blending Temp: Max 90°C
  • Performance Features: Outstanding shear stability, low-temperature pumpability (Brookfield improvement), enhanced pour point and oxidation resistance.
  • Applications: Gear oils requiring high temperature range and load resistance

3. OCP-Based VI Improvers (Olefin Copolymers)

3.1 Solid Granular Co-Polymer

  • SSI: 35
  • Usage Rate: 8.5–9.5% in SN 500 → 1700–1900 cSt, 9.5–10.5% in SN 150 → same viscosity
  • Dissolving Time: 5–9 hrs @ 120°C
  • Packaging: 25 kg PE bags
  • Applications: Mono- and multigrade engine oils, diesel and gasoline lubricants

3.2 Solid Granular Co-Polymer

  • SSI: 28
  • Usage Rate: 13% in SN 150 → ~1000 cSt
  • Performance: Passes CCS cold-start test
  • Dissolving Time: 5–9 hrs @ 120°C
  • Applications: Multigrade engine oils with cold-weather performance focus

3.3 Olefin Copolymer (OCP) – Liquid Form

  • SSI: 22
  • Performance Features: High shear stability, cold-temperature flow enhancement
  • Applications: Diesel & gasoline engine oils, industrial lubricants, crankcase formulations

4. Star-Shaped Styrenic Polymer

  • Composition: Star-shaped liquid viscosity modifier, SSI: 3 (very high shear stability)
  • Performance Features: Soluble in Group II & III base stocks, ideal for low-viscosity oils (e.g., 0W-XX), substitute for PMA in hydraulic fluids.
  • Applications: Automotive (diesel/petrol) oils, next-gen low-viscosity engine oils, industrial & hydraulic lubricants

Key Benefits of Viscosity Modifiers & VI Improvers

Property Impact
Shear Stability Maintains viscosity under mechanical stress
Cold-Weather Performance Ensures flow and pumpability in low temperatures
Enhanced Temperature Range Suitable for both high-load and freezing conditions
Compatibility Works with a wide range of base oils and additives
Pour Point Reduction Improves pumpability during cold starts

Viscosity Modifiers and VI Improvers are essential in modern lubricant formulations, offering improved performance across extreme operating conditions. From PIBs and PMAs to OCP-based and styrenic polymers, each type delivers specific advantages. These additives ensure lubricant stability, reduce wear, enhance fuel efficiency, and contribute to longer equipment life, making them vital components in automotive and industrial lubrication solutions.

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