SAE 30 vs 15W40 is a set of properties that would be different from one motor oils to the other, with their differences in application.
Let’s discover which one works better in certain conditions first, as their aspects differ, from the type of engine you use, to the temperature that these oils would resist to, in terms of temperature.
After, we look into their properties quickly but concisely.
| Property | SAE 30 |
15W40 |
| Viscosity |
High |
Low |
| Cold temperature |
Poor oil flow |
Good oil flow |
| Warm temperature |
Good oil flow |
Good oil flow |
| Temperature range |
Above freezing |
Wide range |
| Engine type |
Gasoline |
Diesel and gasoline |
| Fuel efficiency |
Low |
Low |
| Shear stability |
Low |
High |
| Resistance to oxidation |
Low |
High |
| Additive package |
Basic |
Advanced |
Contents
What Are the Main Difference Between SAE 30 and 15W40?
The main difference between SAE 30 and 15W 40 is that the SAE 30 oil has a higher viscosity than 15W40 at high temperatures. The 15W40 engine oil is usually recommended for use in diesel engines, but, SAE 30 is used in small gasoline engines or as a general-purpose lubricant.
Essential Properties of SAE 30
The essential properties of SAE 30 are that it is thicker in its viscosity, and it is a single-grade level oil.
In addition, it doesn’t have a successful thrive in extreme temperature conditions. Lastly, this is the type of oil best used for engines that run on gasoline.
– Viscosity
This oil is a single-grade oil with a viscosity of 86 to 212 degrees Fahrenheit. Its high viscosity means that it is thicker and more resistant to flow than lower-viscosity oils.
As a result, this oil provides excellent lubrication to engine parts and ensures that they are well-protected against wear and tear. However, it can also result in reduced fuel economy which is the fact that the engine has to work harder to pump the thicker oil through the system.
– Temperature
This motor oil is suitable for use in temperatures above freezing. This is the reason why, it is not recommended for use in very cold or very hot temperatures, because this oil is not one that will function well in extreme conditions.
Generally, this lubricant is best suited for use in moderate temperatures. As a result, it can provide excellent protection and lubrication to the engine.
– Engine Type
This engine oil is primarily used in gasoline engines, and it would let these machines function very well. Generally, it is not recommended for use in engines that use diesel, since it may not provide the necessary protection and lubrication required by these engines.
A gasoline engine typically operates at lower pressures and temperatures than a diesel engine. This makes the SAE 30 engine oil suitable for these applications, and smaller engines.
On another note, it is important to rememeber that some gasoline engines may require other oil grades, which are highly dependent on their specific requirements.
– Fuel Efficiency
One disadvantage to this oil is its high viscosity, which can result in reduced fuel economy, which may be a concern for some homeowners. Additionally, this engine oil has poor flow in cold temperatures, which can make it difficult for the engine to start in cold weather.
If you are going to pour it, it will give you some challenges when then the weather is cold; as a result, it is not recommended.
In short, the reason behind this is that the oil becomes thicker and more viscous at low temperatures, which can impede its flow through the engine. In cold climates, it is recommended to use a thinner oil that will flow more easily at low temperatures.
– Shear Stability
This motor oil has lower shear stability and resistance to oxidation compared to other oils. This means that the oil may break down faster than oils with higher shear stability; this is the case with this given lubricant.
– Resistance to Oxidation
This particular oil has low resistance to oxidation, which means it does not resist chemical breakdown due to exposure to oxygen. However, this is why you should always aim to proper maintenance and regular oil changes can help mitigate these issues and ensure that the engine remains well-protected.
– Additive Package
The SAE 30 oil typically has a basic additive package that includes anti-wear agents, detergents, and dispersants, among others as well.
This additive package provides basic protection and lubrication to the engine.
However, it may not be sufficient for high-stress or high-performance engines. For these applications, oils with more advanced additive packages may be recommended.
Key Characteristics of 15W40
The key characteristic of 15W40 are that it would flow very efficiently no matter the temperature change.
On another note, this lubricant is also used for machines that run on both diesel and gasoline, which is why it increases the machine’s lifespan.
– Viscosity
Generally, higher viscosity oils provide better protection to the engine parts, particularly under high stress and wear conditions. This means that 15W40 provides adequate lubrication to the engine parts both in cold and hot conditions and even in extensive ones too.
Simply put, this multi-grade oil has a viscosity rating of 15 under cold weather and 40 in warm temperatures.
– Temperature
15W40 has good flow even in cold temperatures, which is a critical factor for engine protection during cold starts. Additionally, 15W40 has good flow in warm temperatures, which is equally important for engine protection.
Its multi-grade formulation means that it is suitable for use in both cold and hot climates, making it a versatile oil for engines. This allows the engine to maintain optimal performance and protection regardless of the temperature conditions.
– Engine Type
This oil is commonly used in both diesel and gasoline engines at the same time because it fills the machine’s needs very precisely. The oil’s high viscosity and advanced additive package make it an excellent choice for use in heavy-duty engines that use diesel oil, as they require oils that can withstand high levels of stress and deterioration.
It is also suitable for use in gasoline engines since the oil can provide exceptional protection against wear and deposits.
– Fuel Efficiency
This oil is not very fuel-efficient, which means that it may not be the best choice for those looking to save on gas. The viscosity range and advanced additive package can cause increased drag and resistance in the engine.
This results in reduced fuel efficiency. However, the benefits of using the 15W40 oil, such as engine longevity and optimal performance, often outweigh the reduced fuel efficiency. In short, this is a great oil that you could use to give a positive result to your machine.
– Shear Stability
High-speed engine operation can cause the oil to break down, leading to reduced effectiveness and protection. This oil has high shear stability, which means that it can withstand the stresses of high-speed engine operation. As a result, it provides excellent protection for the engine parts.
– Resistance to Oxidation
The 15W40 oil has high resistance to oxidation, which means that it can maintain its properties for a longer time, and its durability is quite well too. This quality is essential for any engine that is used infrequently. It is also ideal for a lawn mower that is subjected to harsh operating conditions.
– Additive Package
The 15W40 oil has exceptional detergent and dispersant properties. This means that it can effectively clean and remove harmful deposits and contaminants from the engine parts. The detergent properties of the oil allow it to dissolve and remove sludge, carbon, and other deposits that can accumulate in the engine over time.
Additionally, this oil has splendid corrosion and impairment protection properties. In short, this would show you how it can prevent rust and other forms of corrosion and minimize damages that could take place to the engine parts in the long run.
Conclusion
Selecting the best oil for your engine is now easier. Let’s go over some of the most important takeaways from this article:
- SAE 30 oils are best for warm temperatures and small gas-powered engines.
- 15W40 oils are usually recommended for larger machines, like cars, that are powered by gasoline or diesel.
- You should try to use the oil that is the best applicable to your machine and its properties.
- Knowing their differences you would also try to use them to keep them in the right way, especially in the right season.
Now that you are able to tell the difference, what are some of your biggest realizations? Make sure to check the viscosity needed, and your engine will be working like a brand-new one! Read our detailed review on the differences between SAE 30 vs 10w40 mower motor oils.
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