Lubricant additives – find manufacturers and suppliers

Lubricant additives are chemical compounds that are added to lubricating oils or greases to improve their properties, perform certain protective functions or optimize performance under specific operating conditions.

Lubricants (e.g. engine oil, gear oil, hydraulic oil, greases) consist of a base oil (mineral, synthetic or biological) and additives.

The following is an overview of the function and types of lubricant additives, as well as an overview of their application:

How lubricant additives work:

Additives fulfill various functions in lubricants:

1. Improve lubrication by further reducing friction and wear.
2. Protection of metal surfaces against oxidation.
3. Dirt and deposit control by dispersing particles.
4. Improvement of the thermal stability of lubricants.
5. Protection against lubricant ageing and oxidation.
6. Adaptation of flow properties in the event of temperature changes.

Types of lubricant additives:

1. Anti-wear additives (AW additives):
These additives form a protective layer on metal surfaces.
They reduce mechanical wear in highly stressed areas.
Examples: Zinc dialkyl dithiophosphates (ZDDP), phosphorus and sulphur compounds.

2. Extreme pressure additives (EP additives):
These additives protect against micropitting and wear under high loads.
They form chemical protective layers by reacting with metal.
Examples: Sulphur-phosphorus compounds, chlorine compounds.

3. Friction-reducing additives (friction modifiers):
Reduce friction between sliding surfaces.
Increase efficiency and reduce fuel consumption.
Examples: Molybdenum disulphide (MoS₂), graphite or organic esters.

4. Antioxidants:
Delay oil ageing by inhibiting oxidation.
Extend the service life of lubricants.
Examples: Phenols, amines

5. Detergents (cleaning additives):
Neutralize acidic combustion residues.
Keep metal surfaces clean.
Examples: Calcium and magnesium sulphonates.

6. Dispersants:
Keep particles in suspension and prevent deposits.
Keep engines and gearboxes clean.
Examples: Succinimides or polyisobutylene succinimides.

7. Viscosity index improvers (VI improvers):
Stabilize viscosity during temperature fluctuations.
Prevent oil from becoming too thin or viscous.
Examples: Polyacrylates and olefin copolymer.

8. Pour point depressant (PPD):
Improves flow behavior at low temperatures.
Prevents wax formation at low temperatures.
Examples: Alkyl methacrylates.

9. Corrosion and rust protection additives:
Form protective layers against moisture and acids.
Examples: Barium, calcium and magnesium compounds.

10. Foam inhibitors:
Prevent bubble formation in the oil circuit.
Examples: Silicone oils, polyether compounds.

Use of lubricant additives:

1. Engine oils:
Combination of detergents, dispersants, antioxidants and anti-wear additives.
Example: ZDDP for wear protection in combustion engines.

2. Transmission and hydraulic oils:
Contain EP additives for high pressure loads.
VI improvers for constant viscosity.

3. Lubricating greases:
Antioxidants and corrosion protection for long-term applications.
Additives such as MoS₂ or PTFE for emergency lubrication.

4. Industrial oils (e.g. turbine and compressor oils):
High thermal stability and oxidation protection.
Wear protection for long service life.

Lubricant additives are essential for the performance, protection and service life of machines and vehicles. The choice of the right additives depends on the application, the operating conditions and the requirements placed on the lubricant.

Here you will find an overview of the most important criteria that you should pay attention to when purchasing lubricant additives:

Purchasing lubricant additives requires technical understanding, market knowledge and strategic planning. Additives improve the properties of lubricants and must be selected specifically according to the area of application, quality, price and regulatory requirements.

• The first step should be a thorough analysis of the technical requirements of the additive.
• When purchasing, it should be clear which function the additive should fulfill:
• Wear protection (AW/EP additives) cause a reduction in friction and mechanical wear.
• Oxidation protection (antioxidants) extend the service life of the oil.
• Detergents & dispersants serve to prevent deposits.
• Viscosity modifiers are required to stabilize the oil viscosity during temperature changes.
• Anti-corrosion additives protect against rust and oxidation.
• Foam inhibitors prevent the formation of bubbles in liquid lubricants.
• Different combinations are required depending on the application (engine oil, gear oil, hydraulic oil, industrial lubricants).
• Material compatibility and performance parameters should be taken into account during procurement.
• Base oil compatibility: Is the additive suitable for mineral, synthetic or bio-based oils?
• Temperature resistance: Does the additive have to withstand extreme temperatures?
• Chemical stability: Does the additive prevent premature decomposition of the oil?
• Dosage & miscibility: What quantities are required to achieve the desired effect?
• Observe certifications and quality standards: ISO 9001 (quality management), ISO 14001 (environmental management), IATF 16949 (automotive industry)
• Does the supplier have experience in the lubricant industry?
• Can the supplier also deliver large quantities reliably?
• Does the supplier have laboratory analyses and offer comprehensive application advice?
• Do the additives comply with standards such as API, ACEA, DIN or ASTM?
• Are material and safety data sheets (MSDS) available?
• Has the additive already been tested under real operating conditions?
• Chemical additives often require special storage. Does the supplier have the appropriate facilities?
• Some additives must be stored refrigerated or protected from heat.
• Some additives are subject to dangerous goods regulations (e.g. ADR, IMDG)
• Look out for biodegradable alternatives: Especially for environmentally critical applications such as hydraulic oils in water protection areas.
• To reduce heavy metals & toxic substances, give preference to environmentally friendly formulations.
• If possible, observe the manufacturer's carbon footprint. Choose suppliers with sustainable production.
• Keep an eye on regulatory requirements when purchasing:
• REACH conformity (EU Chemicals Regulation).
• GHS labelling (Globally Harmonized System for Hazardous Substances).
• FDA or NSF approvals for food contact applications.
• It is also important to clarify responsibility for transportation and costs (EXW, FOB, DDP etc.)
• Make clear arrangements on how to proceed in the event of quality defects or performance failures.

The purchase of lubricant additives requires a detailed evaluation of technical, economic and regulatory aspects. The selection of the right additives, the quality of the suppliers, long-term cost optimization as well as environmental and safety requirements are crucial.

Lubricant additives can be purchased from various suppliers. Comprehensive information about manufacturers and suppliers of Lubricant additives from all over the world can be found on Exportpages.