Surface Interactions and Thermophysical Analysis of API Group II-V Base Oils

Presented By:
Zach Hunt, VBASE Oil Company

ABSTRACT:

Lubricants play a crucial role in mechanical systems by reducing friction and wear, which enhances the longevity of components. A key secondary function of lubricants is to transfer heat away from contact surfaces, as high temperatures can exacerbate friction and wear. Efficient wetting of these surfaces is essential for minimizing friction and wear while also improving heat dissipation into the lubricant. This presentation provides an overview of the surface interactions and thermophysical properties of both petroleum-based and synthetic base oils, classified under API Groups II-V. We will examine critical measurements such as volumetric heat capacity, contact angle, and surface tension of various lubricants on different ferrous and non-ferrous substrates. Understanding these properties enables lubricant formulators to design optimal products tailored to specific applications.

SPEAKER BIOGRAPHY:

Zach Hunt (M.S. Materials Science and Engineering) is the Senior Applications Specialist for the VBASE Oil Company and a co-inventor of the company’s proprietary Secondary Polyol Ester™ (SPE®) technology. He is responsible for providing technical support to formulators in addition to the development of application specific data for the full range of VBASE SPE® base oils. With more than 15 years of industrial experience in materials R&D Zach has utilized his knowledge of structure-property relationships to drive the development of novel sustainable products.