PC-12 Engine Oil: Improved Performance and Emissions Standards

PC-12, a new engine oil category, is being developed to keep up with the advancements being made with heavy duty engines. This next-generation engine oil category will meet the needs of engine manufacturers and fleet operators while addressing stricter emission standards developed by the EPA.

Our team of forward-thinking scientists and engineers is working together with OEM partners and additive suppliers to understand the requirements and challenges that the industry will meet as PC-12 is rolled out by 2027. Understanding the requirements and challenges means we’re well-positioned to drive the development of engine oil.

Why Is PC-12 Needed?

In December 2022, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency established new regulations requiring the reduction of nitrogen oxide (NOx) and particulate matter (PM) emissions from heavy duty diesel engines. These regulations will first affect model year 2027 engines and seek a 75% reduction in NOx emissions and a 50% reduction in PM emissions. Even more, as stricter greenhouse gas (GHG) emission standards are introduced, we must seek opportunities to extend the service life of critical emission-reducing aftertreatment systems, like diesel particulate filters (DPFs) and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems. Specifically, aftertreatment systems will now need to last up to 800,000 miles, substantially increasing from the current requirement of 435,000 miles.

Engine manufacturers are engineering advanced engine platforms to meet the tighter emission standards. As engines evolve, lubrication technology must advance to protect them. So, as engine performance evolves to meet these demands, so too must lubricants. The API (American Petroleum Institute) is collaborating with Truck and Engine Manufacturers Association (EMA) and the Diesel Engine Oil Advisory Panel (DEOAP) to outline the standards and requirements for PC-12 to ensure that engine oils are ready to meet the demands of modern heavy duty engines while promoting high performance and a long service life.

Key Features of PC-12

PC-12 extends the accomplishments of the engine oil categories introduced in 2016, API CK-4 and FA-4. These oils improved oxidation stability, shear stability, and aeration control — all while facilitating improved fuel efficiency. PC-12 seeks to build on the foundation of oil technology by providing lower viscosities, improved oxidation stability, enhanced wear protection, and improved aftertreatment performance.

Subcategories of PC-12

Typically, oil categories have two subcategories, and PC-12 is no different. Specifically, the subcategories of PC-12 are PC-12a and PC-12b.

• PC-12a: Similar to API-CK 4, this subcategory will focus on backward compatibility to ensure that older engine models benefit from advancements in oil technology while modern engines are emission-compliant. Its specific use case is for engines produced before 2016.
• PC-12b: This subcategory is intended for newer heavy duty engines like those designed to meet the stricter emission standards set by the EPA. This oil category will emphasize low-viscosity oils that protect high-performing engines and maximize fuel economy while working to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Potential Benefits of PC-12

The requirements of PC-12 are still being finalized. However, the new oil category will benefit engines and fleet operators. With PC-12, you can expect:

1. Improved Fuel Economy: Since PC-12 oils will have a lower viscosity, PC-12 will deliver enhanced fuel efficiency, reducing fuel consumption, operation costs, and greenhouse gas emissions.
2. Extended Oil Drain Intervals (ODI): Improving oxidation stability and wear protection will improve drain time intervals, reducing maintenance costs and downtime. This is particularly advantageous for fleets operating in high-mileage and long-haul situations.
3. Improved Engine and Aftertreatment Protection: PC-12 will provide advanced wear protection and oxidation stability, which will help protect modern engines and aftertreatment systems, increasing their lifespan and minimizing catastrophic and costly component failures.
4. Future-Proofing Oil Technology: PC-12 oils, with lower viscosities and stricter chemical limitations, are ready to support further developments in engine designs and emission-control technologies.

When Will PC-12 Be Available?

PC-12 is expected to debut just before the 2027 model year engines are rolled off production and into the market. Having the oils available before the rollout of the new engine platforms means that manufacturers, fleets, and oil suppliers are ready to support and service these new engines.

The Road Ahead

Our experts are working hard to develop new formulations that meet and exceed PC-12 standards and requirements. As always, our lubricants will continue to provide exceptional oxidation stability and superior wear protection. Additionally, we’re committed to empowering customers through knowledge and tools to ensure they have a successful extended oil drain program.

A challenge of PC-12 lubricants is to provide wear control for critical engine parts. While other lubricant manufacturers focus on sulfated ash to boast greater oxidation stability and outstanding fuel savings, a crucial consideration for developing PC-12 will be controlling wear because preventing wear maintains the health of your equipment and mitigates costly repairs that affect your bottom line.

Staying up to date with the developments and roll out of PC-12 will help you plan your transition to the new oil category as it comes to market and help ensure that your engines are running an engine oil that helps keep them compliant with the new emission standards.