Introduction:
Base oil, also known as base stock or base fluid, is the primary component used in the production of lubricants, such as motor oils, hydraulic fluids, and industrial oils. It serves as the foundation for formulating finished lubricants by blending it with additives to enhance performance characteristics. Base oils are typically derived from crude oil through a refining process known as fractional distillation. This process separates crude oil into different fractions based on their boiling points. The desired fraction, which contains the properties suitable for lubrication, is then further processed to enhance its quality. The classification of base oils includes different viscosity grades, often denoted by standards such as ISO VG (International Standards Organization Viscosity Grade) or SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) viscosity grades. These classifications help ensure that lubricants meet specific requirements for particular industries and applications.