Decoding the oil classification according to ILSAC
ILSAC (International Lubricant Standartization and Approval Committee) is the International Committee for Standardization and Approval of Motor Oils. It was created on the initiative of the American Automobile Manufacturers Association (AAMA) and the Japanese Automobile Manufacturers Association (JAMA) with the aim of tightening the requirements for manufacturers of motor oils for gasoline engines.
The ILSAC classification should be considered as a subclass (or rather "category") in the classification API, although it is independent. But what does such a subclass provide and how does it differ from the API?
From API standardization, the ILSAC standard further tightens the requirements for:
- increased shear resistance (the oil performs its functions even under increased pressure);
- fuel economy is a must;
- improved filtration at low temperatures;
- low volatility of oil (motor oils are consumed over time (burnout, volatility, etc.), this quality reduces oil consumption;
- low phosphorus content in oil (catalysts will last longer);
- reduced foaming;
- reduced oil viscosity (especially noticeable in high-power engines).
To date, 5 ILSAC categories have been officially standardized: ILSAC GF-1, GF-2, GF-3, GF-4, GF-5.
GF-1 – introduced in 1994, now obsolete. Coincides with API SH. Includes the original requirements for motor oils of Japanese and American cars.
GF-2 – since 1997 coincides with API SJ, today it is also obsolete.
GF-3 – since 2001 complies with API SL. Increased requirements for the environmental friendliness of the exhaust system, fuel economy, ensuring engine performance under critical loads and service life are presented. Also considered obsolete, but still used.
GF-4 – since 2004 complies with API SM, exceeds GF-3 in all parameters: improved cleaning and fuel economy, stricter requirements for phosphorus content to 0.08%. Retains its properties over an extended period of operation.
GF-5 — introduced in 2010 together with API SN. Standardized oils are designed to provide high protection of pistons and turbochargers from high-temperature deposits, high requirements are imposed on sludge formation. The main difference from previous versions is the possibility of use in engines using biofuel. The latest protection of exhaust gas toxicity systems. The oil change interval has been increased to the maximum. It is the defining standard for all engines of the latest generation.