Shell Aviation today announced the launch of a brand new product AeroShell Diesel 10W-40 in response to the introduction of compression ignition engines for use in light aircraft. The new engines are of comparable weight and power output to the existing gasoline engines but have the advantage of greater fuel efficiency and much lower operating costs. However, the introduction of compression ignition (diesel) engines has also created fresh challenges when considering the type of lubricant to use. The combination of Jet fuel and the compression ignition engine, makes this class of engine unique. Shell recognised 7 years ago that these factors would also have a significant impact upon the design of a successful lubricant. The development of long term, close relationships with a number of engine manufacturers was key in helping Shell Aviation to both understand and balance the properties needed. The resulting product optimises engine cleanliness and deposit control, as well as reducing oil sludging and piston wear – some of the problems associated with exposure to the particulates produced during combustion. It also prevents the build up of acid in the oil – a by-product of the sulphur found in Jet fuel and helps to prevent problems associated with scuffing damage when starting engines. To combat these, and other issues that might arise, this revolutionary new lubricant has already undergone in excess of 40,000 hours of bench and flight testing. In addition it has been an integral part of the development and approval testing carried out by manufacturers of the new compression ignition engines. The result is an oil that, for the first time, is optimised for use in Jet fuel powered piston engines. Robert Midgley, Global Technical Manager for Shell Aviation said: “We felt it was key to the successful development of this product to ensure that it had exhaustive testing in real engines, rather than just in the laboratory. The result is a new oil for a new class of engine, but one which comes with an already proven pedigree. Shell Aviation recognised early the potential of this type of engine and has been working closely with the engine manufacturers since 1997. This has allowed us to bring our expertise to the field to develop and test a new lubricant offering specifically suited to the unique demands of this unprecedented combination of fuel and engine technology.” This latest innovation from Shell Aviation demonstrates its commitment to technical innovation in the field of General Aviation. It follows on from a number of other Shell Aviation firsts such as being the first to develop aviation oils containing Ashless Dispersant additives in the 1950s, the first to produce a semi-synthetic multigrade and the first with advanced anti-corrosion and anti-wear additive packages. Enquiries: please contact Bianca Ruakere, +44 (0) 20 7934 4323, Shell International Media Relations
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