What’s That – PC-12

Proposed Category 12 (PC-12) engine oils, set to revolutionize the industry by 2027 to keep up with the advancements in engine technology and the emissions regulations that will take place in 2027. In the demanding world of industrial operations, heavy-duty engine oils are utilized in daily routines. Heavy-duty engine oils are the unsung heroes, ensuring that machinery runs smoothly, efficiently, and reliably. In today’s “What’s That Wednesday”, we will explore what PC-12 is, how it aligns with the upcoming policies and regulations for 2027, and how this alignment will help reduce emissions.

What is PC-12?

PC-12 is the proposed successor to PC-11, the engine oil specification developed by the American Petroleum Institute (API) to meet the demands of modern diesel engines. Introduced in 2016, PC-11 was split into two subcategories: CK-4 and FA-4. CK-4 oils focused on backward compatibility and higher-viscosity applications, while FA-4 targeted low-viscosity oils to improve fuel efficiency in modern engines.

It builds on this foundation by addressing the needs of next-generation engines, especially those designed to comply with stricter emission regulations and increasing fuel efficiency standards. It also focuses on adapting to technological advancements in engine design, including higher operating temperatures and greater demand for thermal and oxidative stability With the upcoming changes and implementations to reduce emissions, manufacturers are adapting to meet the needs of the 2027 engines, leading to the development of less harmful heavy-duty engine oil. This is where PC-12 comes into play. It is designed to help uphold the EPA’s ruling and help mitigate emissions. It will be divided into two subcategories—PC-12a and PC-12b. Introduced in 2016, the API CK-4 and API FA-4 engine oil categories serve distinct purposes. While CK-4 is compatible with older engines, FA-4 is designed to protect more fuel-efficient engines.

Why is PC-12 Being Developed?

The primary reason for developing Proposed Category 12 is to address the evolving needs of heavy-duty diesel engines, specifically in light of stricter emissions regulations set to take effect in 2027. Here are some key reasons for its development:

1. Stricter Emission Standards: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has finalized new emission requirements that call for a 75% reduction in nitrogen oxide (NOx) and a 50% reduction in particulate matter (PM) for heavy-duty engines. These standards drive advancements in engine oil to help engines meet these stringent limits.
2. Extended Engine and Aftertreatment System Life: The new regulations mandate that after-treatment systems, such as diesel particulate filters (DPFs), have a longer useful life, increasing from 450,000 miles to 800,000 miles. Enhanced lubricants are crucial to support this extended lifespan.
3. Enhanced Lubricant Performance: PC-12 aims to provide better oxidative stability, wear protection, and soot dispersion. These improvements will help engines run more efficiently and reduce maintenance needs.
4. Fuel Efficiency: The new category will include lower high-temperature, high-shear (HTHS) viscosity levels, which can improve fuel efficiency for newer vehicle models.
5. Compatibility with Older Engines: It will also ensure backward compatibility with older engine models, making it a versatile solution for a wide range of vehicles.

What Benefits Does PC-12 Bring?

Proposed Category 12 (PC-12) offers numerous benefits, especially in terms of energy efficiency and resource management. Companies like Shell and other industry leaders have highlighted the advantages of such categories in enhancing operational efficiency and sustainability. For instance, PC-12 has the capacity to streamline regulatory compliance by providing a clear framework for categorizing and managing resources. This can lead to more efficient allocation of resources, reducing waste, and optimizing production processes. Additionally, PC-12 can facilitate better environmental stewardship by setting higher standards for emissions and waste management, which aligns with the sustainability goals of many companies.

By adopting PC-12, companies can also improve their market competitiveness, as consumers and stakeholders increasingly prioritize environmentally responsible practices. As original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) seek better fuel economy, more power, and longer oil drain intervals, PC-12 will similarly drive advancements in engine technology. Overall, the implementation of PC-12 can drive innovation, improve operational performance, and support long-term sustainability goals.