Escalating engine test costs
In the last decade in the US costs to complete all the engine tests for a particular heavy-duty diesel engine oil category have increased five fold while Passenger car motor oil costs have almost doubled. In Europe the picture is of increased testing costs related to more individual OEM specifications and the need for OEM re-approvals. This feature takes a look at the reasons for these escalating costs, gains insight from testing laboratories and an OEM and assesses the implications for lubricant formulators.

Meeting the new MARPOL requirements
Annex VI of the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL) which regulates air pollution came into force on the 19th May. It sets limits on sulphur oxide and nitrogen oxide emissions from ship exhausts and prohibits deliberate emissions of ozone depleting substances. These regulations will require a rethink on how engine lubrication is managed with the use of non conventional fuel and lubricant additives being one likely solution. Insight talks to two shipping companies to gain their views on how they are handling these new requirements.

Teamwork at Additives 2005
This year’s Royal Society of Chemistry and Institute of Mechanical Engineering conference on additives for fuels and lubricants provided a multi-disciplinary forum for chemists, engineers, statisticians and tribologists to share ideas for future developments in the science and technology of fuels and lubricants. Insight gives an overview of some of the key presentations at this year’s event.

Dewaxing aids improve economics
If you were to ask six different refinery professionals responsible for dewaxing waxy raffinates why they use Infineum dewaxing aids you would probably receive half a dozen different answers. One might use them to increase plant capacity without installing additional filters, another to increase oil yield, whilst yet another might employ them to maintain high value US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for the wax produced. Insight takes a closer look at these versatile additives which are used to add value in refineries around the globe.

North American Infineum Trends 2005
The North American Infineum Trends 2005 presentations with a theme of value creation will be presented at key venues across the US, Asia Pacific and Latin America. Insight gives an overview of the presentation with a taste of trends in hybrid technology, transmissions, diesel fuel, outboards, and lubricant specifications.

Face to face: Dominique Fournier - on challenges and promises
In January 2005 Dominique Fournier took over the reins of Infineum International Limited. Replacing Tony Gaskell, who retired after six years in the position as Chief Executive Officer, Fournier has his mind set on ensuring the continued success of the company. Malcolm Rose, Marketing Communications Manager Infineum UK Ltd talks to him about his views of the industry and priorities for Infineum.