Antifriction additives in engine oil
Machine operation

Antifriction additives in engine oil

Antifriction additives can significantly increase the life of engine oil, as well as improve its efficiency. In addition, additives enhance the protective and lubricating properties of the oil. The third function that this composition performs is the additional cooling of rubbing parts in the internal combustion engine. Thus, the use of antiwear additives makes it possible to increase the resource of the internal combustion engine, protect its individual components, increase the power and throttle response of the engine, and reduce fuel consumption.

Antifriction additives are a special chemical composition that allows you to save oil, increase compression in the cylinders, and in general, extend the life of the internal combustion engine.

Such agents are called differently - remetallizers, additives to reduce friction or anti-friction additives. Manufacturers promise, when using them, an increase in the power of the internal combustion engine, a decrease in the friction of its moving parts, a decrease in fuel consumption, an increase in the resource of the internal combustion engine, and a decrease in exhaust gas toxicity. Many remetallizing additives are also capable of "healing" wear on the surfaces of parts.

Name of fundsDescription and featuresPrice as of summer 2018, rub
Bardahl Full MetalReduces fuel consumption by 3 ... 7%, increases power. Worked well even in difficult conditions.2300
SMT2Increases the efficiency of the internal combustion engine, removes noise in it, allows you to save fuel.6300
Liqui moly ceratecGood additive, recommended for any car.1900
ХАDО 1 Stage Atomic Metal ConditionerThe effectiveness of the application is average. slightly increases power and reduces fuel consumption. Very expensive for average quality.3400
Mannol Molybdenum AdditiveEfficiency is average or below average. Slightly increases power and reduces consumption. The big advantage is the low price.270
Anti-friction metal conditioner ERThe air conditioner only works at high temperatures. There is an opinion that it contains chlorinated paraffin, which is harmful to internal combustion engines.2000
Xenum VX300Inexpensive, but not very effective additive. Its use is unlikely to significantly increase the power of the internal combustion engine.950
EngineTreatmentThe use of this additive slightly increases the efficiency of the internal combustion engine. Can be used with various equipment. the main drawback is the high price.3400

Description and properties of antifriction additives

Any oil in the internal combustion engine of a car performs three functions - lubricates, cools and cleanses surfaces of moving parts. However, during the operation of the motor, it gradually loses its properties for natural reasons - due to operation at high temperature and under pressure, as well as due to gradual clogging with small elements of debris or dirt. Therefore, fresh oil and oil that has worked in the internal combustion engine, for example, for three months, are already two different compositions.

Antifriction additives in engine oil

 

The new oil initially contains additives designed to perform the functions listed above. However, depending on their quality and durability, their lifespan can vary significantly. Accordingly, the oil also loses its properties (although the oil may lose its properties for other reasons - due to an aggressive driving style, using the car in conditions of dirt and / or dust, poor quality oil, and so on). Accordingly, special additives to reduce wear both internal combustion engine elements and precisely oil (increasing the duration of its use).

Types of antifriction additives and where to apply

The composition of the mentioned additives includes various chemical compounds. It can be molybdenum disulfide, microceramics, conditioning elements, the so-called fullerenes (a carbon compound operating at the nanosphere level) and so on. additives may also contain the following types of additives:

  • polymer-containing;
  • layered;
  • metal-cladding;
  • friction geomodifiers;
  • metal conditioners.

Polymer-containing additives Although effective, they have a lot of downsides. this type of product has a relatively short-term effect, after which there is a possibility of higher fuel consumption and increased wear of engine parts. also, clogging of the oil channels with the polymer components of the additive is possible.

Layered additives used for new internal combustion engines, and are intended for lapping components and parts with each other. The composition may include the following components - molybdenum, tungsten, tantalum, graphite, etc. The disadvantage of this type of additives is that they have an unstable effect, which, moreover, almost completely disappears after the additive leaves the oil. it can also result in increased corrosivity of the exhaust gases of an internal combustion engine in which layered additives were used.

Metal cladding additives (friction remetallizers) are used to repair microcracks and small scratches in internal combustion engines. They contain microparticles of soft mals (most often copper), which mechanically fill all the roughness. Among the shortcomings, an overly soft forming layer can be noted. Therefore, in order for the effect to be permanent, it is necessary to use these additives on an ongoing basis - usually at each oil change.

Friction geomodifiers (other names - repair compositions or revitalizers) are made on the basis of natural or synthetic minerals. Under the influence of friction of the moving parts of the motor, a temperature is formed due to which the mineral particles are combined with the metal, and a strong protective layer is formed. the basic minus is that temperature instability appears due to the resulting layer.

Metal conditioners consist of chemically active compounds. These additives make it possible to restore anti-wear properties by penetrating into the surface of metals, restoring its anti-friction and anti-wear properties.

What anti-wear additives are best to use

But you need to understand that such inscriptions on packages with additives are actually more of a marketing ploy, the purpose of which is to attract a buyer. As practice shows, additives do not give miraculous transformations, however, there is still a certain positive effect from them, and in some cases it is worth using such an antiwear agent.

MileagePossible problems with DVSmWhat additives to use
up to 15 thousand kmIn a new internal combustion engine, due to the running-in of components and parts, increased wear may occur.It is recommended to use friction geomodifiers or layered additives. They provide a more painless grinding in of a new motor.
from 15 to 60 thousand kmThere are usually no significant problems during this period.It is recommended to use metal cladding additives, which will help to extend the life of the internal combustion engine to the maximum.
from 60 to 120 thousand kmThere is an increased consumption of fuel and lubricants, as well as the formation of excessive deposits. In part, this is due to the loss of mobility of individual components - valves and / or piston rings.Apply various repair and restoration compounds, having previously flushed the internal combustion engine.
more than 120 thousand kmAfter this run, increased wear of engine parts and assemblies, as well as excess deposits, usually appear.The decision to use different compositions must be made depending on the state of a particular internal combustion engine. Usually metal cladding or repair additives are used.
Beware of additives that contain chlorinated paraffin. This tool does not restore the surface of the parts, but only thickens the oil! And this leads to clogging of the oil channels and excessive wear of the internal combustion engine!

A few words about molybdenum disulfide. It is a popular anti-wear additive used in many lubricants used in automobiles, such as CV joint lubricants. Another name is friction modifier. This composition is widely used, including manufacturers of anti-friction additives in oil. So, if the package says that the additive contains molybdenum disulfide, then such a tool is definitely recommended for purchase and use.

Cons of using anti-friction additives

There are two disadvantages from the use of anti-friction additives. The first is that in order to restore the working surface and maintain it in a normal state, the presence of an additive in the oil in the proper concentration is necessary. As soon as its value drops, the work of the additive stops immediately, and besides, this can lead to serious clogging of the oil system.

The second disadvantage of using anti-friction additives is that the rate of oil degradation, although reduced, does not stop completely. That is, hydrogen from the oil continues to flow into the metal. And this means that hydrogen destruction of the metal takes place. However, it should be noted that the benefits of using anti-friction additives are still greater. Therefore, the decision on whether to use these compounds or not lies entirely with the car owner.

In general, we can say that the use of anti-friction additives is worth it if they are implied add to inexpensive or medium quality oil. This follows from the simple fact that the price of anti-friction additives is often high. Therefore, in order to extend the life of the oil, you can buy, for example, inexpensive oil and some kind of additive. If you use high-quality motor oils, for example, Mobil or Shell Helix, then using additives with them is hardly worth it, they are already there (although, as they say, you can’t spoil porridge with oil). So whether to use anti-friction additives in oil or not is up to you.

The method of using additives for the vast majority of them is identical. you need to pour the composition from the canister from the can into the oil. It is important to observe the required volume (usually it is indicated in the instructions). Some compounds, for example, Suprotec Active Plus, need to be filled in twice, namely, at the beginning of the operation of the oil, and after a run of about one thousand kilometers. Be that as it may, before using a particular additive, be sure to read the instructions for its use and follow the recommendations given there! We, in turn, will give you a list of popular brands and a brief description of their action in order for you to choose the best anti-friction additive.

Popular additives rating

Based on numerous reviews and tests from the Internet, which were carried out by various car owners, a rating of antifriction additives was compiled, which are common among domestic motorists. The rating is not of a commercial or advertising nature, but only aims to provide the most objective information about the various products currently on the shelves of car dealerships. If you have had a positive or negative experience with a particular anti-friction additive, feel free to comment.

Bardahl Full Metal

Tests conducted by specialists from the authoritative domestic publication Za Rulem showed that the Bardal Full Metal anti-friction additive shows one of the best results compared to similar formulations. Therefore, she gets the first place in the ranking. Thus, the manufacturer positions it as a new generation additive based on the use of C60 fullerenes (carbon compounds) in its base, which is able to reduce friction, restore compression and reduce fuel consumption.

The performance of real tests really showed excellent efficiency, albeit not as significant as the manufacturer indicates. The Belgian oil additive Bardal really reduces friction, and hence the power increases and fuel consumption decreases. However, two shortcomings are noted. First, the positive effect is short-lived. So, the additive must be changed at each oil change. And the second drawback is its high cost. Therefore, the question arises about the appropriateness of its use. Here, any car enthusiast must decide individually.

Anti-friction additive Bardahl Full Metal is sold in a 400 ml can. Its article number is 2007. The price of the indicated can as of the summer of 2018 is about 2300 rubles.

1

SMT2

A very effective additive designed to reduce friction and wear, as well as prevent scuffing of piston group parts. SMT metal conditioner is positioned by the manufacturer as a tool that can reduce fuel consumption, reduce exhaust smoke, increase piston ring mobility, increase ICE power, increase compression, and reduce oil consumption.

Real tests have shown its good efficiency, so the American anti-friction additive CMT2 is fully recommended for use. a positive effect is also noted in the restoration of the surfaces of parts, that is, tribotechnical processing. This is due to the presence in the additive composition of elements that “heal” irregularities. The action of the additive is based on the adsorption of active components with the surface (quartz fluorocarbonates, esters and other surface-active compounds are used as these components).

Of the shortcomings of this tool, it is worth noting only that it can rarely be found on sale. And depending on the state of the internal combustion engine, the effect of using the SMT additive, namely the 2nd generation synthetic metal conditioner SMT-2, may not differ at all. However, this can be called a conditional disadvantage. note that It is NOT recommended to fill in the gearbox (especially if it is an automatic), only in the internal combustion engine!

Sold in a 236 ml canister. The article number is SMT2514. The price for the same period is about 1000 rubles. also sold in a 1000 ml pack. Its part number is SMT2528. The price is 6300 rubles.

2

Liqui moly ceratec

It is a completely effective additive, which is positioned as a tool that is guaranteed to work for 50 thousand kilometers. The composition of Keratek includes special microceramic particles, as well as additional chemically active components, the task of which is to correct irregularities on the surface of the working parts of the internal combustion engine. Additive tests showed that the friction coefficient drops by about half, which is good news. The result is an increase in power and a decrease in fuel consumption. In general, it can be argued that the effect of using the German anti-friction additive in Liquid Moli Cera Tec oil is definitely there, although not as “loud” as the manufacturer claims. It is especially good that the effect of use is quite long.

No visible flaws were identified, so the Liqui Moly Ceratec anti-friction additive is fully recommended for use. It is packaged in 300 ml cans. The article of the goods is 3721. The price of the specified package is 1900 rubles.

3

ХАDО 1 Stage Atomic Metal Conditioner

It is positioned by the manufacturer as an atomic metal conditioner with a revitalizant. This means that the composition is able not only to reduce friction, but also to restore roughness and unevenness on the working surfaces of individual parts of the internal combustion engine. In addition, the Ukrainian anti-friction additive XADO increases (evens out) the compression value of the internal combustion engine, reduces fuel consumption, increases the power, throttle response of the internal combustion engine and its overall resource.

Real tests of the additive showed that, in principle, the effects declared by the manufacturer are indeed observed, however, to an average degree. It rather depends on the general condition of the internal combustion engine and the oil used. Of the shortcomings, it is also worth noting that the instructions contain a lot of incomprehensible (abstruse) words, which are sometimes difficult to understand. Also, one drawback is that the effect of using the XADO additive is observed only after a considerable time has passed. And the tool is very expensive, as for its average effectiveness.

The product is packaged in a 225 ml can. Its article number is XA40212. The price of the indicated spray can is 3400 rubles.

4

Mannol Molybdenum Additive

The antifriction additive Manol Molybdenum (with the addition of molybdenum disulfide) is very popular among domestic motorists. Also known as Manol 9991 (produced in Lithuania). Its main purpose is to reduce friction and wear of individual parts of the internal combustion engine during their operation. Creates a reliable oil film on their surface, which does not disappear even under heavy loads. also increases the power of the internal combustion engine and reduces fuel consumption. Doesn't clog oil filter. It is necessary to fill in the additive at each oil change, and at its operating temperature (not completely hot). One pack of Mannol anti-friction additive with the addition of molybdenum is enough for oil systems up to five liters.

Manol additive tests show the average efficiency of its work. However, the low cost of the product indicates that it is quite recommended for use, and it definitely will not cause harm to the motor.

Packed in a 300 ml jar. The article of the product is 2433. The price of the package is about 270 rubles.

5

Anti-friction metal conditioner ER

The abbreviation ER stands for Energy Release. ER oil additives are made in the USA. This tool is positioned as a metal conditioner or "friction winner".

The operation of the air conditioner is that its composition increases the amount of iron ions in the upper layers of metal surfaces with a significant increase in operating temperature. Due to this, the friction force is reduced and the stability of the mentioned parts is increased by approximately 5 ... 10%. This increases the power of the internal combustion engine, reduces fuel consumption and toxicity of exhaust gases. also, the EP air conditioning additive reduces the noise level, eliminates the appearance of scoring on the surface of parts, and also increases the life of the internal combustion engine as a whole. Among other things, it facilitates the so-called cold start of the engine.

The ER air conditioner can be used not only in internal combustion engine oil systems, but also in transmission (except automatic), differentials (except self-locking), hydraulic boosters, various bearings, hinges and other mechanisms. Good performance is noted. However, it rather depends on the conditions for using the lubricant, as well as the degree of wear of the parts. Therefore, in "neglected" cases, there is a weak efficiency of its work.

It is sold in jars with a volume of 473 ml. Item number - ER16P002RU. The price of such a package is about 2000 rubles.

6

Xenum VX300

The Russian product Xenum VX300 with microceramics is positioned as a friction modifier additive. It is a fully synthetic additive that can be added not only to motor oils, but also to transmission oils (except those used in automatic transmissions). Differs in long term of action. The manufacturer notes a mileage equal to 100 thousand kilometers. However, real reviews indicate that this value is much less. It depends more on the condition of the engine and the oil used in it. As for the protective effects, the composition is able to reduce fuel consumption and provide good protection to the surfaces of moving engine parts.

One package is enough for an oil system with a volume of 2,5 to 5 liters. If the volume is larger, then you need to add an additive from proportional calculations. The tool has proven itself well as an additive for gasoline and diesel engines.

Packed in 300 ml jars. Article - 3123301. The price of the package is about 950 rubles.

7

EngineTreatment

This additive was created using the patented Prolong AFMT technology (manufactured in the Russian Federation). Can be used on a variety of gasoline and diesel engines, including turbocharged ones (it can also be used on motorcycles and two-stroke engines such as lawnmowers and chainsaws). "ENGINE TREATMENT Prolong" can be used with both mineral and synthetic oils. It effectively protects internal combustion engine parts from wear and overheating in a wide range of operating temperatures.

the manufacturer also claims that the product is able to reduce fuel consumption, increase the resource of the internal combustion engine, reduce exhaust smoke, and reduce oil consumption for waste. However, real tests conducted by car owners show the low effectiveness of this additive. Therefore, the decision on its use is taken only by the car owner.

Sold in 354 ml bottles. The article of such a package is 11030. The price of a bottle is 3400 rubles.

8

Anti-friction additives in gear oil

Less popular are gear oil anti-friction additives. It is mainly used only for manual transmissions, for “automatic” transmissions it is very rare (due to its design features).

The most famous additives for gear oil in a manual transmission:

  • Liqui Moly gear oil additive;
  • NANOPROTEC M-Gear;
  • RESURS Total Transmission 50g RST-200 Zollex;
  • Mannol 9903 Gear Oil Additive Manual MoS2.

For automatic transmissions, the most popular are the following compositions:

  • Mannol 9902 Gear Oil Additive Automatic;
  • Suprotek-AKPP;
  • RVS Master Transmission Tr5;
  • Liquid Moly ATF Additive.

usually, these additives are added along with the gearbox oil change. This is done in order to improve the performance of the lubricant, as well as increase the service life of individual parts. These anti-friction additives contain components that, when heated, create a special film that protects moving mechanisms from excessive wear.

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