Which oil to choose for modern agriculture machinery?

From the article you will learn:

• What is LOW SAPS oil
• What parameters an agricultural machinery oil should have
• How to choose the right lubricant

Development synonymous with agriculture

Over the years, there have been huge changes in the wider industry. The industrial revolution has resulted in a more streamlined production process. Mechanisation has taken place. The equipment and machinery used in production evolved, becoming more and more modern. It was no different in one of the most important segments of the economy – agriculture. What the tools, equipment and then specialised machinery were powered by changed gradually over the years. From the use of human and animal muscle power to steam engines, then internal combustion engines and finally turbocharged direct injection units.

Particulate filters, common rail systems and selective catalytic reduction are now firmly established in agriculture. Four-wheel drive and the use of modern automatic transmissions are no longer an extravagance. And the machine interiors, designed in the spirit of modern aesthetics, are equipped with GPS navigation and touchscreen computers.

In caring for the environment

The development of the agricultural industry has had a huge impact on the environment. We live in a time where ecology is of paramount importance. The ecological trend is one of the main considerations in the production of equipment. Modern agricultural machinery is largely equipped with direct-injection diesel engines, which are characterised by good performance and durability. Unfortunately, a number of harmful substances such as nitrogen oxides, hydrocarbons, carbon oxides and particulates are produced during operation of these units.

The emission standards introduced over the years (in passenger cars known as Euro, and in agriculture as TIER or STAGE) have forced manufacturers to use solutions such as catalytic reactors or diesel particulate filters (DPF). The latter are worth paying particular attention to. Looking not only at how they work, but also at maintaining efficiency with modern oils.

Relationship of DPF filters to low SAPS oils

The DPF filters commonly used today, located in the exhaust systems of engines, make it possible to eliminate a significant proportion of the particles that are harmful to humans from the exhaust gases. The benefits of using such a solution are undeniable. However, how to ensure that such a filter works reliably for many years? The answer is the right oil.

Farmers today are aware that, in order to keep their drive units running smoothly, the type of oil they use to protect the engine and ensure it functions correctly is of no small importance. Depending on the type of drive unit, in order to ensure the longevity and reliable operation of the engine, the user will need a suitable product with special properties. And these are plentiful on the market. Synthetic, semi-synthetic, mineral – these are terms that are often used in this context. However, it is important to know that these are not correct when it comes to selecting the correct lubricant.

It is also worth remembering that the number of top-ups depends on the oil parameters. Better products run out less, which has a positive effect on costs.

So which oil would be best?

For engines with an integrated DPF, it is essential to use low SAPS oil. These are so-called low ash agents, i.e. with a chemical composition that generates little sulphated ash (SA), phosphorus (P) and sulphur (S) through combustion. The low ash content prevents clogging of the DPF, saving it from burning out. In turn, the low phosphorus and sulphur content has a beneficial effect on the performance of the catalytic reactors.

Rely on the tried and tested and choose the best

There are plenty of products on the market ‘assuring’ us of their reliability. However, it is important to remember that it is always advisable to choose a lubricant that stands out in terms of its quality. One that, being tried and tested by users, has earned its position and reputation. Pouring untested or low-quality oils into agricultural machinery is not the best idea. The care we take with our engine will affect its longevity and reliability. Let’s use the best.