Group I and Group II oils are classifications for lubricating base oils. Group II oils are more refined and have better performance than Group I oils.
Here are the key differences:
Composition
Group I oils have more impurities, while Group II oils are cleaner and have fewer undesirable compounds. This results in Group II oils having a lighter colour compared to the darker colour of Group I oils- as a result, products blended from Group II have a lighter colour. I.E engine oils may look like hydraulic oils.
Properties
Group II oils have a higher viscosity index, meaning they maintain their thickness better at different temperatures. They also have better oxidation stability, so they last longer and protect better against sludge and varnish. Group II oils have lower sulphur content, reducing the risk of corrosion.
Applications
Both Group I & Group II oils are suitable for a wide range of uses in both automotive & industrial applications with Group II being ideal for higher-performance applications.
In summary, Group II oils provide improved performance and protection compared to Group I oils. They are also characterized by their lighter colour, which indicates their higher level of refinement and cleaner composition. This makes Group II oils a better choice for demanding applications.
Watch the video below for a detailed breakdown on the key difference between Group I & Group II Oils.
