Aviation Lubricants
Aviation Lubricants
Aviation lubricants must meet very high standards, as any failure of an aircraft power plant, transmission, or hydraulic system is unacceptable. Read on to learn more about primary aviation applications, performance challenges, and specifications.
Primary Aviation Lubricant Applications
- Piston Engines
Performance challenges: Prevent sludge (non-dispersant, ashless dispersant)
- Turbine Engines
Performance challenges: Low temperature start up, high operating temperatures, thermal stability (led to advances in synthetics!)
- Hydraulic Fluids
Performance challenges: Low viscosity, super cleanliness, fire resistance
- Preservatives
Performance challenges: Protect engines for seasonal flyers
- Grease
Performance challenges: Performance across a very wide temperature range
How Do Aviation Lubricants Differ From Traditional Lubricants?
Fuel Specifications
- Avgas for piston engines – high octane, contains lead
- Jet fuel for turbine engines – low freeze points
Metallurgy
- High temperature alloys
- Ultra-high strength steel
- Intermetallics
Operating Conditions
- Extreme high and low temperatures can be seen (example: the usable operating temperature range of a synthetic aviation hydraulic oil is -40F to 401F.
The Rigorous Testing of Aviation Lubricants
Aviation lubricants must pass rigorous testing and certification procedures to ensure they adhere to the high standards established by aviation authorities and engine manufacturers.
Early specifications were primarily British and U.S. Military. Over time many specifications have been consolidated and revised to MIL-PRF (performance.) The SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) has taken over as guardian for other MIL specs.
Many OEMs have specific approvals: Lycoming, Pratt-Whitney, Rolls-Royce, GE, Honeywell, Boeing, Safran Helicopter, Allison.
Midtex Oil is proud to provide AeroShell’s tried and trusted aviation products – contact us today to learn more!
