Acid Number - how do acids form in oil? And how does it relate to oxidation?

Total Acid Number (TAN), Strong Acid Number (SAN) and Acid Number (AN) are all important used oil analysis parameters. But how does acid make it's way into engine oils and industrial lubricants? In this video we look at the basic chemistry of acid formation to better understand where these acids come from.
Here at Lubrication Expert we take a first-principles approach to lubricants and greases; helping industry understand lubrication technology and pushing the limits of what is possible.
Catch us on Twitter: / lubricationexp
Catch us on LinkedIn: / lubrication-expert

[@LubricationExplained]

Looking for more structured lubrication courses? Join LE Pro for $30AUD per month (that's about 20USD). lubrication.expert/product/le-pro/

[@simonm7776]

Another extremely well explained video - Thank you!

[@annanoe7325]

Great Job! I really enjoy your videos!
😀

[@LubricationExplained]

Thanks!

[@xynostasos9022]

How does oil nitration affect the overall oil properties? I've heard and read multiple times about oxidation and sulfation but not much about nitration. I'm trying to find a good engine oil for my newly LPG-converted Fiat engine. Many people advise against the use of high-TBN oils. How should I evaluate the available oil choices? Owners manual calls for ACEA A3/B4 min.

[@LubricationExplained]

th-cam.com/users/shorts5VSh_gt9J4s?feature=share

[@danear2]

Hi thanks for this video 🙏
I have a question please - What do refineries use for neutralise thier crude oil..? Is there a different between a crude oil with high acid number that is origin is from oxidation and from contamination mineral acid..?

[@LubricationExplained]

Good question - so I don't think that refineries necessarily go out of their way to neutralise acids, as there shouldn't be too many acids in crude. It may have acidic properties due to sulphur content, but these sulphur compounds are removed by a different process rather than acid neutralisation.

[@tomasnokechtesledger1786]

The furnaces making the bulk refining going to 350C, would get rid of some acid by evaporation. The reminscent probably stay with the resulting heavy TAR...

[@drnavinkiranmurty8458]

Nice

[@LubricationExplained]

Thanks!

[@rolandotillit2867]

Very interesting to know about sulfuric acid, is that why ZDDP kills catalysts? The sulfuric acid oxidizes the non precious metal part of the catalyst?

[@LubricationExplained]

It's actually mainly the phosphorous in ZDDP that seems to kill catalysts - mainly by physically binding to the catalyst material and preventing interaction with the exhaust gas.