In a recent field study conducted at a local construction company in South Africa, African Group Lubricants (AG Lubricants) supplied Mobil Delvac Modern MX 15W-40 Super Defense engine oil to test its performance under rigorous operational conditions. The goal was to extend the oil drain interval (ODI) while maintaining optimal engine performance and reliability.
In collaboration with the company’s engineering team, AG Lubricants identified a mixed fleet application that included heavy-duty off-highway vehicles, explains Ernest Roux, Commercial Manager.
A Komatsu HD465-7 rigid dump truck was selected as the test vehicle for the field study. Regular used-oil analysis and performance monitoring were conducted throughout the test to ensure accurate and reliable results.
Fourfold
During the field study, Mobil Delvac Modern MX 15W-40 Super Defense demonstrated high thermal and oxidation stability, resulting in reduced sludge buildup, lower deposit formation, and controlled viscosity. These qualities allowed for an extended oil drain interval, successfully increasing from 250 to 1 000 operational hours.
Based on the assessments, the fleet achieved the following annual benefits:
- Safety: Reduced overall exposure hours by 608 hours.
- Environmental Impact: Reduced oil usage by 17 328 litres.
- Productivity: Achieved revenue savings of approximately R4 749 591 considering both direct and indirect cost reductions.
Mixed fleet
The construction company operates a fleet of over 1 000 pieces of heavy-duty equipment across various divisions, including mining, roadworks, and marine construction. With operational efficiency being a top priority, the company sought to explore solutions that could reduce maintenance time and costs without compromising performance or reliability.
Based on the field study’s positive results, AG Lubricants recommended MX 15W-40 as the preferred engine oil for the company’s mixed fleet. The oil’s ability to provide superior thermal and oxidation stability makes it ideal for extended ODIs and optimal engine protection.
Overall productivity
“The extended ODI not only reduced oil consumption and environmental impact but also improved safety and increased overall productivity. This product proved to be a cost-effective and reliable solution for enhancing fleet performance,” says Johan Nell, Lubricants Engineer.
AG Lubricants is the authorised distributor of Mobil lubricants in South Africa, Swaziland, Lesotho, Botswana, Mozambique and the DRC.
