Feature Article: Environmentally Acceptable Lubricants

There have been a lot of changes over the years in the oil industry to say the least.  OEM’s are requiring oil manufacturers to provide lubricants that can withstand the higher temperatures and pressures, lower emissions, extended drain intervals and in certain areas,  lubricants that are environmentally acceptable.  Environmentally Acceptable Lubricants (EAL's) are lubricants that are specifically designed and formulated to meet strict environmental regulations and standards (the maritime and shipyard industries).

In environmentally sensitive areas, EALs are used as an alternative to traditional lubricants that can cause harm to the environment. Boats with newer tiered engines are required to follow the Vessel General Permits (VGP) guidelines which require vessels to use certain lubricants in environmentally sensitive areas.  These lubricants need to meet certain criteria in order to be called environmentally acceptable. 

Oil biodegradability is one of the determining factors as to whether it is considered environmentally acceptable.  The term Readily Biodegradable means that more than 60% of the oil will degrade in less than 28 days.  The term Inherently Biodegradable means that between 20% & 60% of the oil will degrade in 28 days and the term non-biodegradable means that less than 20% is degradable.  

Don’t be misled by the terms Environmentally Responsible or Environmentally Safe or Friendly.  The attached information helps to explain EAL’s as well as a list of these lubricants that Chevron has to offer:

Environmentally Acceptable Lubricants | Chevron Lubricants (US)*
Environmentally Acceptable Lubricants | Chevron Marine Products**
Inland and Coastal Marine Segment Brochure***

* From ChevronLubications.com
** From ChevronMarineProducts.com
*** ChevronLubricants.com brochure

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Ted Broach is an employee for Domestic Fuels, a distributor of diesel fuel, gasoline, home heating oil and lubricants in the Hampton Roads, Richmond area, and Northeastern North Carolina. He was born and raised in Norfolk, VA and worked as a sales representative in the fuel and lubricant business for over 17 years, the last 11 years with Domestic Fuels & Lubes. Domestic Fuels & Lubes is a local, family owned and operated company that has been in business since 1986.

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