Evaluation of Environmental and Economic Benefits through Use of Synthetic Motor Oils
Abstract
Cost and environmental benefits of extended-drain engine lubrication were evaluated by means of a two-year field program at Letterkenny Army Depot, Pennsylvania. Four MIL-L-46152 crankcase lubricants (two mineral and two synthetic-base) were utilized in routine post operation. Each lubricant was assigned to one of four 25-vehicle fleets, and each fleet then operated exclusively on that lubricant. During this time there were no engine failures that could be attributed to the extended-drain program. Therefore, it is concluded that (a) extended-drain engine operation has potential for both economic and ecological benefits to Army field operations, and (b) the synthetic lubricants employed showed no particular performance advantages over the mineral oils. Consequently, the higher cost of synthetic lubricants would make them less attractive for widespread Army utilization.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1977
- Accession Number
- ADA046277
Entities
People
- John A. Russell
- John D. Tosh
Organizations
- Southwest Research Institute