Turbine engine oils have evolved considerably since the first gas turbine engines were used in the early 20th century. Early versions of turbine engine oil were actually just mineral oil lubricants, like putting baby oil on a turbine. During the middle of the 20th century, engineers worked on developing more efficient turbine engine oils that could meet the increased capacities of turbine engines. Today, most turbine engine oils are synthetic esters, specially formulated for use in turbine engines like those on aircraft. Turbine engine oil distributors in Florida carry a number of different grades and brands of turbine engine oil products. The right turbine engine oil will affect the performance of your aircraft.
First generation turbine engine oils exhibited a problem known as engine coking. Engine coking refers to the heavy mineral deposits the oils would leave, requiring regular cleaning and maintenance. Second generation turbine engine oils have improved ester formulas and additives that prevent engine coking. These oils last a longer time than previous oils and require less frequent maintenance and draining. Mineral oil-based turbine engine oils are still available and relevant for certain aircrafts; a turbine engine oil distributor will help you identify the optimal oil for the performance of your aircraft.
The primary consideration for aircraft performance is the temperatures the engine reaches as well as the external temperatures. Mineral oils cannot handle high temperatures or high levels of combustion, but most newer aircrafts are designed to operate at high combustion temperatures. Therefore, some aircrafts now require high performance oils. Manufacturers like AeroShell have an extensive product line with different grades for different engines. A turbine engine oil distributor will help you to decide which oil is best for the conditions under which your aircraft operates.
