Base oil SN150

In most cases, Base Oil SN150 is extracted from crude oil as a solvent-refined, paraffinic mineral oil. The American Petroleum Institute (API) classifies SN150 base oil as a Group I base oil and because of its low viscosity, SN150 is considered a light neutral oil. The SN150 grade’s versatility makes it one of the most commonly used light-base oils in various applications.

Base oil SN150 Code

The Harmonized System (HS) Code for Base Oil SN150 is 271019. This code is used for customs classification, trade, and tariff purposes worldwide

Understanding SN 150 Base Oil

SN 150 is a solvent neutral base oil derived from petroleum crude oil. It belongs to Group I base oils, meaning it’s produced through solvent refining processes with relatively low levels of saturates and higher sulfur content compared to more refined oils like Group II or III.

This base oil typically has:

• A viscosity of around 50-65 cSt at 40°C
• A flash point above 180°C
• Moderate pour point, making it suitable for use in warm and temperate climates

SN 150 is characterized by:

• Light color (usually between 1.5 to 2.5 on the ASTM scale)
• Good solubility for additives
• Moderate oxidation stability

Its balance of cost-efficiency and performance makes it an ideal choice for blending mid-tier lubricants that are not exposed to extreme operating conditions.

Key Specifications and Properties (SN 150 Virgin)

Property	Typical Value
Kinematic Viscosity @100°C	5 cSt
Viscosity Index (VI)	90
Flash Point (COC)	200-205°C
Pour Point	Max -6°C
Sulfur Content	0.05%  wt.
Color (ASTM)	2-2.5
Density @15°C	~0.870 kg/cm³

These values may vary slightly depending on the source of crude oil and refining process, but they serve as a standard for evaluating SN 150 quality.

Group Classification According to API (Group I)

The American Petroleum Institute (API) classifies base oils into five groups. Group I, which includes SN 150, is defined by:

• Less than 90% saturates
• More than 0.03% sulfur
• Viscosity Index between 80 and 120

While more advanced base oils (Group II and III) are preferred in high-performance synthetic lubricants, Group I oils like SN 150 remain highly relevant due to:

• Lower production cost
• High solvency for additives
• Adequate performance in less demanding applications

For China, Africa, and India, where price-performance balance is critical, SN 150 offers the ideal solution.

Applications of SN 150

Automotive Lubricants

One of the most widespread uses of SN 150 is in the automotive sector, where it serves as a primary component in the production of:

• Engine oils
• Gear oils
• Transmission fluids

Its moderate viscosity and solvency help improve the dispersion of additives, ensuring smooth engine performance and protection under normal operating conditions. For regions like India and Africa, where many vehicles operate in high-temperature environments, SN 150’s thermal stability and lubricating properties are especially valuable.

Industrial Fluids and Machinery

SN 150 is extensively used in the formulation of industrial lubricants, especially:

• Compressor oils
• Turbine oils
• General-purpose lubricants

Its balance between cost and performance makes it ideal for light to medium-duty machinery commonly found in manufacturing and agricultural sectors. In developing economies, it supports consistent operations without the high expense of synthetic alternatives.

Hydraulic Oils and Gear Oils

SN 150’s physical characteristics—such as:

• Excellent viscosity stability
• Acceptable oxidation resistance
• Good compatibility with additives

—make it suitable for use in hydraulic systems and gearboxes, where it helps reduce friction, wear, and thermal breakdown. This is particularly important for construction equipment, mining machinery, and agricultural gear used throughout Africa and South Asia.

Other Common Uses in Emerging Markets

Beyond automotive and industrial sectors, SN 150 is utilized in:

• Process oils
• Rubber and plastic manufacturing
• Textile lubricants
• Printing ink formulations

Its chemical stability and neutral character allow it to blend well in diverse formulations. In China’s massive manufacturing hubs, and Africa’s growing light industries, SN 150 offers a flexible and affordable raw material for product development.