Table of Contents
Introduction
What Does SAE Mean In Oil ?
Everyone owns a car, whenever you buy engine oil in the market or online you often see code like SAE 5W-30 & SAE10W-40 on the label. But what does SAE mean in oil ? And why is it so much important to your vehicles performance and health?
In this informative article lets explore and breakdown the concept of ” What Does SAE Mean In Oil ? ” in simple terms so that, next time when you purchase engine oil you make the right and informed decision.
What Is SAE In Oil ?
SAE stands for ” Society of Automotive Engineers “. Its a professional organization in United States Of America that sets global standards and benchmark for automotive & aerospace tech industries.
When it comes to SAE in engine oil, SAE simply has created a viscosity grading system. This system normally tell you how thin or thick the oil is at different temperatures.
Now the next time when you see the term : SAE 5W-30 this represents SAE viscosity rating.
Understanding SAE Viscosity Codes.
In simple terms viscosity means how easily the oil flows. In general thin oil flows fast and thick oil flows slow. SAE terminology clearly gives you a idea on how the engine oil behaves inside your engine.
When it comes to oil there are 2 types –
Single Grade Oil
This type of oil has fixed thickness and and does not adapt to temperature changes. Despite of any temperature, this oil does not change its thickness.
Multi Grade Oil
This type of oil can perform better in cold and hot conditions.
Breaking Down The Numbers.
Let us now decode the oil grade : For example SAE 10W – 40.
SAE 10W – 40 : Here the word ” W ” stands for WINTER. The number 10 says how the oil flows in cold temperatures. For numbers like 5W or 0W tells that the oil stays thinner in cold temperatures which in turn helps in easy engine start.
40 – This number indicates how thick the oil remains at high engine temperatures. Higher number indicates that the oil remains thick at high temperatures offering protection to engines under high temperature stress.
Now lets interpret the oil grade SAE 10W – 40 : Based on the above explanation we can say that this oil flows well in winter season and at the same time provides reliable protection when the engine heats up.
Why Is SAE Rating Very Important ?
SAE rating helps mechanics and car owners to choose the right engine oil for the climate and environmental conditions. Using the wrong engine oil can lead to poor engine lubrication, high engine wear and tear, reduced fuel efficiency & difficult engine start during cold seasons.
Hence understanding SAE terminology is very important.
Common SAE Oil Grades And Their Uses.
- SAE 0W-20 : This type of engine oil grade is excellent for modern cars and and performs well in cold condition, it also boosts fuel economy.
- SAE 5W-30 : This engine oil grade is a very good balance for most of the cars at moderate temperature conditions.
- SAE 10W-40 : This engine oil is suitable at warmer climate conditions.
- SAE 15W-50 : This engine oil grade is suitable for high performance race cars.
FAQ’s About SAE In Oil.
Is higher SAE oil better for my engine?
Answer – Not always, a higher number means thicker oil. Using thicker oil can harm your engine’s performance and health. Always refer to manufacturers guide and consult a engine technician.
Can I mix two different SAE oils?
Its not recommended, mixing 2 different SAE oils may change the viscosity balance and disturb the engine health.
Does SAE mean synthetic or mineral oil ?
SAE only refers to viscosity grade of the oil, Both Synthetic & Mineral oil don’t have SAE ratings.
Conclusion
The term SAE is simply a standard developed by the Society Of Automotive Engineers to classify the thickness of the oil ( Viscosity ). SAE rating helps to select the engine oil for your car.
Hope we are able to help you understand the concept.
Extras
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