ILSAC Requests Development of New Motor Oil Category

The International Lubricants Standardization and Approval Committee (ILSAC) has requested that a new gasoline engine oil specification be developed, the American Petroleum Institute (API) announced.

The request was sent to the co-chairs of the Auto/Oil Advisory Panel (AOAP) and the chair of the API Lubricants Standards Group. The AOAP will begin the evaluation process of the specification, expected to be called ILSAC GF-7, which would replace the current GF-6 specification. The request states a desired first-licensing date from API of no later than the end of Q2 2028, the organization said.

The new specification is being requested with the following improvements, according to the ILSAC:

• Replacement Sequence V & VI engine tests
  • The Sequence V sludge test has been using the same engine since GF-4. The engine components are in short supply, and there is a need to update the test procedure to better reflect current engine platforms. The Sequence VIE/F Fuel Economy tests also require an updated engine platform.
• Improvement to Sequence IIIH – Oxidation and deposits test
  • Increased oxidation protection
• Resolution of Sequence VIII – Corrosion test
  • Evaluate the test for possible removal
• Review of Sequence IX – Low-speed pre-ignition (LSPI) test
  • Review due to potential end of component life
  • Introduce a stand-alone Aged Oil LSPI Test to ensure mitigation of pre-ignition throughout the drain interval
• Review of Sequence X – Chain wear test
  • Review due to potential end of component life
• Seal Test changes
  • Keep/replace/add new seals
• New/modified Bench Tests
  • NOACK Volatility (ASTM D5800)
  • Oil gelation/filterability (ASTM D6795)
  • Sulphated Ash (ASTM D129 (was D874))

According to the organizations, goals for the new specification, include:

• Maintain backwards compatibility
• Evaluate ethanol fuel impact on tests
• Inclusion of 0W-12/0W-8 Low Viscosity Oils-(0W-12/0W-8)
• Protect for future EPA/CARB requirements