What are the differences between fully synthetic, semi-synthetic, and mineral engine oils?
2 Answers
Here are the specific differences between fully synthetic, semi-synthetic, and mineral engine oils: 1. Fully synthetic oil: Fully synthetic oil is a high-grade product among engine oils. It is derived from ethylene and propylene dispersed from natural gas or crude oil, which undergo complex chemical reactions such as polymerization and catalysis to form a lubricating fluid composed of large molecules. 2. Semi-synthetic oil: Semi-synthetic oil is a type of automotive engine oil made from semi-synthetic base oil, specifically Group III base oil internationally. It is a product refined from mineral oil through hydro-cracking technology and is a mixture of mineral oil and fully synthetic oil in a 4:6 ratio. The purity of semi-synthetic oil is very close to that of fully synthetic oil, but its cost is slightly higher than mineral oil; it is an ideal transitional product from mineral oil to synthetic oil. 3. Mineral oil: Mineral oil is a lubricating oil refined from petroleum. The base oil of mineral oil is the residual bottom oil left after the useful light substances (such as aviation fuel, gasoline, etc.) are fractionated from crude oil during the refining process.
I remember the first time I learned about the differences in engine oil, I pondered for a long time! Fully synthetic oil is artificially synthesized, with uniform base oil molecules, making it less prone to thinning at high temperatures and having better low-temperature fluidity. It's suitable for high-performance cars or harsh weather conditions, like starting the car smoothly in winter without shaking, and it can extend engine life with oil changes needed only after 10,000 kilometers or more. Mineral oil is directly refined from crude oil, cheaper but with unstable viscosity, deteriorating after about 7,000 to 8,000 kilometers, and the engine may be more prone to carbon buildup. Semi-synthetic oil is a middle ground between the two, with moderate cost and performance. I've tried it in regular sedans and felt the cost-performance was decent, but it doesn't match the cleanliness and smoothness of fully synthetic oil. When changing oil, don't just look at the price; consider your car model and driving habits, like how speed enthusiasts are better off with fully synthetic oil to avoid wear and tear.
