PQIA to rival ILMA and API?
The newly-formed Petroleum Quality Institute of America is conducting its own tests on packaged motor oils.
Established by Petroleum Trends International President, Thomas F. Glenn, the PQIA describes itself as "an independed resource for information and insights on the quality and performance of lubricants in the marketplace".
PQIA is part funded by lube blender sponsors, with the list including CITGO, Warren Oil and CAM2. While this has raised concerns within the industry regarding objectivity and possible conflict of interest, PQIA has made it clear that testing and reporting is "completely independent" and is published without sponsor influence.
Most importantly, PQIA has set out to openly publish the good and the bad, with a focus on informing the consumer while also driving quality within the lubes industry. The first results published were fo a batch of ten private label brands purchased at retail outlets and tested at Intertek Automotive Research in Texas. Initial tests showed nine out of ten samples to meet API SM GF-4 standards, with one brand giving "cause for concern".
Tests on passenger car engine oil from the major brands has also been undertaken, with initial results said to "look good".
PQIA is certain to be a major subject of debate within the industry, with a general view that while driving quality is positive, care has to be taken that PQIA maintains independence and works collaboratively with the other industry associations.
