Amsoil Logo

What is the difference between synthetic and conventional oil? 

Motor oil, whether synthetic or petroleum-based, consists of molecular chains of hydrogen and carbon atoms, referred to as hydrocarbons. Petroleum crude oil is a thick, highly flammable dark-brown or greenish liquid with high energy density. Many contaminating elements exist in this complex mixture of hydrocarbons, including sulfur, nitrogen, oxygen and metal components such as nickel or vanadium. Petroleum crude oil is the raw material used for a wide variety of petrochemicals, including solvents, fertilizers, plastics and lubricants.

The oil refining process separates the various types of molecules in the oil by weight, resulting in a concentrated batch suitable for manufacturing products such as gasoline, LPG, kerosene or lubricant base oils. The chemical composition of conventional motor oil can vary substantially depending on the raw crude oil refining process.

While petroleum base oils are refined, synthetic base oils are manufactured and can achieve a higher performance level. Synthetic oil is chemically engineered for a certain molecular composition with a tailored and uniform structure. Such fine-tuned control over the final molecular composition of synthetic oils is the key to their superior performance properties. Designing molecular structures in a planned and orderly fashion results in molecules, and end-products, that are far more stable than their refined petroleum counterparts.

HISTORY OF AMSOIL

As a jet fighter squadron commander, Lieutenant Colonel Albert J. Amatuzio had ample opportunity to witness synthetic lubricants in action. These oils are used exclusively in jet engines because of their extraordinary ability to reduce friction and wear on engine components, function dependably at severe temperature extremes and withstand rigorous and lengthy engine operation without chemical breakdown.

Recognizing these same benefits would prove invaluable in combustion engines, Amatuzio began conducting serious research in the early 1960s. He soon developed and sold commercially available synthetic oils under a variety of names. The true milestone came in 1972when AMSOIL became the first synthetic motor oil in the world to meet American Petroleum Institute service requirements. It set all-new standards for motor oil quality and outperformed conventional petroleum motor oils on all counts. It was clear from the start this innovative product would play a major role in redefining the performance capabilities of modern machinery and engines. Today, virtually every other motor oil manufacturer has recognized the superiority of synthetic lubricants and has followed the AMSOIL lead with introductions of synthetic motor oils of their own. Accept no substitutes – AMSOIL is The First in Synthetics®

The initial breakthrough 40 years ago was just the start. AMSOIL has gone on to formulate a wide selection of synthetic lubricating oils for all types of engine and gear applications, including those for specialized vehicles and severe operating conditions. In addition, AMSOIL has developed sophisticated fuel additives, filtration systems and other companion products that supplement and extend lubricant performance.

The history of AMSOIL product introductions defines an entire industry. AMSOIL synthetic motor oil, gear lube, automatic transmission fluid, two-cycle oil and other products helped introduce a new age in equipment and engine design. Engineers today recognize synthetic lubricants as critical to increasing the power, longevity and energy efficiency of vehicles and equipment, providing concrete testimony to AMSOIL innovation.

AMSOIL Signature Series Turbo
AMSOIL V-Twin
AMSOIL XL
AMSOIL Signature Series Diesel Cylinder Liners
AMSOIL Oil Filters Wear
AMSOIL Signature Series Sludge

If there is an AMSOIL product you are interested in and don't see it listed here please call as it is likely we already have it on the shelf.