With over 32 years specialising in the worldwide gas engine market, Michael Guelck, Chevron Lubricants business developer for gas engine products, spoke to Power Technology about the issues facing natural gas engines today, and what is most concerning their customers.

What are the biggest issues facing users of today’s natural gas engines?

Micheal Guelck: Some issues arise around pistons, for example higher temperatures, new piston designs and materials, and piston deposits causing abrasive wear. This ongoing wear can lead to reduced oil consumption rates, lower methane numbers in gas which can cause pre-ignition, as well as engine derating and reduced lubricant life.

How does a product such as Texaco HDAX 9200 help combat these problems?

“The latest generation of advanced technology is specifically designed to extend lubricant life and minimise deposits in the engine.”

MG: The latest generation of advanced technology is specifically designed to extend lubricant life and minimise deposits in the engine. Texaco HDAX 9200 has been formulated with a combination of premium base oils and high-performance additives for extended oil drains.

The low ash formulation works with varying gas qualities to provide extended drain periods and reduced deposits in the engine.

What are some of the biggest concerns customer’s talk to you about?

MG: Reduced drain periods and component life due to changes in engine design and varying gas qualities are of particular concern to customers. But TBN retention in the lubricant is becoming a critical measurement for oil drain life.

Chevron Lubricants are global leaders in supplying gear oils, greases, hydraulic fluids, gas engine oils, paper machine oils and turbine oils throughout Europe to help improve fuel economy, lower emissions and extend the period between oil changes in industrial equipment.