the product for SAE 75W compliance at -40°C as per ASTM D2983 – the Standard Test Method for Low Temperature Viscosity using a Rotational Viscometer (Brookfield). They claimed it was not possible to obtain a result as the product set solid during the test.
The complainant stated that result showed the product was not SAE 75W compliant and would therefore not provide adequate circulation in gear systems.
Additionally, the complainant stated that the product also claims MB 235.8 on the label. This performance level they say, can only be achieved using a specific additive chemistry from one additive company and is full polyalphaolefin (PAO) giving a pour point of circa -57°C. The product in question has a pour point of -30°C. This they believe, indicated incorrect base oil choice and non- compliance with the original validated formulation.
VLS independently procured a sample of the product within the UK, and tested it for low temperature properties against ASTM D2983. The test results demonstrated that the product was not in compliance with SAE J306 against test standard ASTM D2983, and MB 235.8.
In response to the complaint, the Named Party quarantined all stock and arranged an uplift of product from the warehouse with the supplier. They also changed supplier and removed reference to the MB 235.8 specification from the product label.
Protecting you and your
workshop
VLS believes that the product is in compliance and the investigation can be closed, subject to a six- month review in line with VLS’s stated procedure.
On 05/01/2024 VLS undertook a six-month review in line with its stated process as part of which it procured and tested a new sample of the product. The new sample tested did not meet the low temperature requirements of SAE 75W. As the label has been updated to exclude MB 235.8, VLS has assumed that this is stock provided by the new supplier, which is not in compliance.
Consequently, the product’s non-compliance was notified to Trading Standards with whom VLS has a Primary Authority relationship.
David Wright, Company Secretary of VLS said “We want to ensure we have the highest standards in Europe for lubricant manufacture, blending and marketing, and we want a ‘level playing field’ for all participants, so that we protect the interests of the consumer and other end users.
In the Verification of Lubricant Specifications (UK) Ltd, we have set our course for stronger industry self-regulation by working positively towards more open and transparent competition that benefits all lubricant organisations.”
ukla-vls.org.uk
Verification of Lubricant Specifications is an independent trade body here to protect you by investigating performance claims made on lubricant products so that you and your customers can be assured that the oils you use are what they say and can do what is claimed.
If you have concerns about a lubricant, report them to us at 01442 875922 or
admin@ukla-vls.org.uk
LUBE MAGAZINE NO.186 APRIL 2025
65
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48 |
Page 49 |
Page 50 |
Page 51 |
Page 52 |
Page 53 |
Page 54 |
Page 55 |
Page 56 |
Page 57 |
Page 58 |
Page 59 |
Page 60 |
Page 61 |
Page 62 |
Page 63 |
Page 64 |
Page 65 |
Page 66 |
Page 67 |
Page 68 |
Page 69 |
Page 70 |
Page 71 |
Page 72 |
Page 73 |
Page 74
