Lack of sludge causes API jam
Engine oil marketers seeking API licencing may have to settle for provisional approval due to a problem with a reference fuel.
According to Lube Report's Steve Swedburg, the API has issued a letter stating any oil companies seeking product licences for API SJ/L/M/N and ILSAC GF-5 engine oils will have to apply for provisional licencing under API regulations until September.
The problem has arisen after API rejected a batch of reference fuel used for Sequence VG (5-G) testing when it was shown to produce insufficient sludge for the test. Sequence VG is a critical test to measure engine oil performance in sludge and varnish formation control.
The issue means that applications for provisional licences will now have to be applied for with evidence from the lubes producers that their candidate oils are likely to pass the test. Should they subsequently fail, or pass but the paperwork not be received by API by September 14, the oil must be recalled from stockists and have all API trademarks removed from the labelling at the licencees expense.
As it is anticipated that the reference fuel, and thus the tests, is unlikely to be available until August, leaving a very short window for provisional licencees to complete the process and submit the paperwork. In addition, there is likely to be a backlog for other new products lining up for approval in the meantime.
