The lubrication of these engines is very similar to heavy-duty traction engines but has some specific features related to fuel and type of service. Operation is normally around-the-clock which means there are no cold start requirements at low temperatures. In order to increase the power and efficiency of these system, the engines deployed are typically large-scale with bigger oil pans to increase the in-service life of the oil charge and reduce downtime. 

The main difference, however, is linked to the fuel. For all these engines, but especially for those powered by biogas and vegetable fuel, combustion in the chamber generates acid by-products that inevitably leak into the oil pan, creating possible corrosion and engine damage. Consequently, the chemistry used for this type of lubricant focuses on neutralising or, at least, controlling acidity without the harmful deposits that can form in this neutralization reaction. These engines are, in fact, monitored by periodically analysing the oil in use, thus determining the service life based on the acidity parameters (TAN Total Acid Number) and Base Reserve (TBN Total Base Number). In order to reduce emissions, latest-generation engines are fitted with exhaust after-treatment systems, i.e. catalytic converters which are, however, sensitive to the chemical content of the oil residue drawn into the combustion chamber. It is, therefore, very important to keep the phosphorus content below the safety limits. 

Based on the above, it is clear that products with well-calibrated chemical characteristics for optimal engine operation must be used.  As these are fixed applications and often involving heat recovery, it is essential to use cooling fluids that can efficiently regulate the engine heat in the long term. The choice of glycol is also very important to ensure efficient operation. Products with long-life and deposit-free additives are recommended to ensure high thermal conductivity at all times. 

Pakelo distributes products that are officially approved by leading manufacturers (Innio-Jenbacher, MAN, MWM, Wartsila, Bergen-Rolls Royce, etc.), thus guaranteeing high standards of technology and maximum engine efficiency at all times.