Low SAPS: improving performance & efficiency

Shell developers formulated their LowSAPS technology into a new generation of synthetic engine lubricants to support the most technically advanced engine operation and emissions performance. These lubricants are now available across the world under the brand name Shell Helix Ultra Extra. Designed to meet standards required by original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) in the automotive industry, they are an example of how Shell technology improves performance and extends the lifespan of machinery.

Reducing harmful elements

LowSAPS literally means lubricants with low concentrations of sulphated-ash, phosphorus and sulphur. These substances can harm the performance of exhaust treatment systems such as catalytic converters and Diesel Particulate filters (DPFs), impairing engine and emissions performance.

Phosphorus can poison exhaust system catalysts with the effect that they take longer to begin to operate effectively. Sulphur can reduce the effectiveness of NOX traps and this limits manufacturers’ abilities to meet increasingly stringent standards on international exhaust emission, including the European Union’s EURO standards. Both these elements are found in the antioxidant and the anti-wear additives that keep the oil fresh, so protecting the engine for longer.  As all engines burn some oil, a certain degree of engine fouling is inevitable as these elements are released during the combustion process. 

Detergents in the oil, which help keep the engine clean, can form ash on combustion. Ash particularly affects DPFs in diesel cars which trap the soot produced by combustion.  The trapped soot is burned to regenerate the filter but the ash remains and can clog the filter – this increases the exhaust back-pressure and reduces engine efficiency.

Unique cleansing agents

Shell Helix Ultra Extra is uniquely formulated to combine maximum engine cleansing and performance. It contains special cleansing agents that actively prevent dirt building up in the engine.  It also has low viscosity, rapid oil flow and provides low friction. These features minimise engine vibration and noise leading to a smoother and quieter drive. Shell Helix Ultra Extra has been approved by OEMs to meet their engines’ requirements By providing LowSAPS oils across the globe, OEMs can be confident that Shell Lubricants can support their most technologically advanced engine operation and its emissions performance throughout the warranty period.

Shell’s innovation in this field continues as we look to the longer term and collaborate with global OEMs to develop lubricants for the next-generation of engine, such as cam-less engines that will house electromagnetic valves and may be available from some OEM’s as early as 2010.