The American Petroleum Institute (API) has begun accepting applications for SAE 0W-8 and SAE 0W-12 viscosity grades of motor oils that meet API specifications under its Engine Oil Licensing and Certification System (EOLCS).
This step follows the API Lubricants Group's decision to include these viscosity grades in the EOLCS program on September 19, 2023.On October 1, API announced that it had formally adopted the SAE 0W-8 and SAE 0W-12 viscosity grades as part of API Service Category SP (Resource Efficient).
Originally introduced in May 2020, API SP is designed to provide protection against issues such as low-speed pre-ignition, timing chain wear, and enhanced high-temperature deposit protection for pistons and turbochargers. It is also designed to enforce tighter sludge and varnish control. In addition, API SP Resource Protectant is aligned with ILSAC GF-6A, combining the performance of API SP with better fuel economy and protection for ethanol-containing fuels up to E85 blends (85% ethanol content).
Eligible products will be licensed exclusively for API Service Category SP (Resource Protection). To ensure that these products maintain a basic performance baseline, a full candidate data package must be submitted.
API believes that the addition of the SAE 0W-8 and SAE 0W-12 levels to API Service Category SP is critical to standardizing licensing globally, and API says that this move is essential to ensure aftermarket compliance and to develop implementation procedures for these viscosity levels. Currently, a number of OEMs around the world recommend the use of engine oils in these viscosity grades. This adjustment will further allow OEMs to recommend API-approved engine oils, making it easier for North American consumers to purchase oils approved by their vehicle manufacturers.
In addition, the 22nd edition of API 1509 has been released. This update incorporates SAE 0W-8 and SAE 0W-12 as well as other important revisions. Page 5 of the 22nd Edition of API 1509 provides a comprehensive description of these changes. Interested readers can access the English version of 22nd Edition API 1509 on the API website. Translations in other languages are forthcoming.
