ExxonMobil Chemical has expanded its SpectraSyn Elite metallocene polyalphaolefin (mPAO) base stock portfolio with the introduction of a 65 cSt grade (at 100°C), providing formulators more flexibility in developing advanced industrial and automotive lubricants. SpectraSyn Elite 65 mPAO is the industry’s first 65 cSt mPAO grade and the second grade in the SpectraSyn Elite family, launched in 2010. Samples are immediately available with commercial quantities available for global supply in 4Q12.
With its improved viscosity index, SpectraSyn Elite 65 provides lubricant manufacturers with greater versatility to achieve low-temperature specifications than they can with a conventional high-viscosity (Hi-Vis) mid-range PAO. “We designed SpectraSyn Elite 65 to allow formulators to maximize the value of the improved viscosity index. We view it as an opportunity to expand the viscosity grades that can be achieved with a Hi-Vis base stock,” said Carolyn Moore, marketing manager of ExxonMobil Chemical’s global Synthetics Business.
SpectraSyn Elite 65 mPAO blends well with conventional PAO products and mineral oil base stocks, providing opportunities to meet specifications over a broader temperature range while reducing traction coefficient for improved energy efficiency.
“Our introduction of this new SpectraSyn Elite grade further reinforces ExxonMobil Chemical’s technology leadership and commitment to providing formulators with a wide range of advanced synthetic base stocks,” said Chris Birdsall, vice president of the company’s global Synthetics Business. “That commitment includes the previously announced construction of a world-scale plant in Baytown, Texas, to produce up to 50,000 tons per year of SpectraSyn Elite mPAO base stocks. Project work on that plant began in 2011 and is on schedule for a 2013 completion.”
ExxonMobil Chemical is the world’s largest PAO producer and offers the broadest range of advanced synthetic base stock fluids, including SpectraSyn and SpectraSyn Plus PAO, SpectraSyn Elite mPAO, Synesstic™ alkylated naphthalene and Esterex™ ester fluids.
