Oil additives are added to oils during the manufacturing process to improve the performance of motorcycle oils.
Below are examples of commonly used additives.
Additives are often used to improve the lubrication qualities and reduce oxidation (burning) and friction, but they can also be used for simple things like changing the colour of the oil.
| Additive | What it does |
|---|---|
| Detergents | Detergents improve the cleanliness of the engine, especially in hot areas. They work by holding the by-products of oxidation (burning) in suspension and in so doing prevent the oil coagulating and stop deposits building up in the engine. |
| Dispersants | Dispersants help control cold-sludging and also carry products that assist the combustion process |
| Oxidation and corrosion inhibitors | Oxidation and corrosion inhibitors reduce the rate of oil oxidation and help control any corrosion due to acids and water vapour |
| Anti-wear agents | Anti-wear agents protect rubbing components against wear from friction by improving film strength. This is especially good in aiding the lubrication of valve components |
| Pour depressants | Pour depressants lower the point at which an oil solidifies so they do not thicken so easily when cold |
| Viscosity-index improvers | Viscosity-index improvers help to reduce thinning (when hot) and thickening (when cold) of oils. They help control oil consumption and improve cold starting. Viscosity-index improvers enable the oil to flow like a thin oil and lubricate like a thick oil at all times. |
| Oiliness agents | Oiliness agents reduce the friction of heavily loaded rotating or reciprocating parts (like the fly wheel) |
| Anti-foaming agents | Anti-foaming agents reduce foaming, which is caused by the air in the crankcase mixing with oil under turbulence. Foaming reduces an oil’s ability to lubricate and cool and increases oxidation |
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