Lubricating oil additives; containing petroleum oils or oils obtained from bituminous minerals

HS code 381121 covers lubricating oil additives that contain petroleum oils or oils obtained from bituminous minerals. These additives play a crucial role in the automotive and industrial lubricants industry, enhancing the performance and longevity of lubricating oils. As a key component in the broader 3811 (Prepared additives for mineral oils (including gasoline) or for other liquids used for the same purposes as mineral oils (e.g., lubricants, fuel)) industry, this code is essential for maintaining the efficient operation of machinery and engines across various sectors.

The production of lubricating oil additives under HS code 381121 typically involves blending and formulating a variety of chemical compounds. This process often includes the use of base oils, dispersants, detergents, anti-wear agents, and other performance-enhancing additives. Manufacturers may employ techniques such as high-shear mixing, homogenization, and precise temperature and pressure control to ensure the optimal performance and stability of the final product.

The main inputs required for the production of lubricating oil additives under HS code 381121 include base oils, such as mineral oils or synthetic oils, as well as a range of specialty chemicals and additives. These may include dispersants, detergents, anti-wear agents, antioxidants, and other performance-enhancing compounds. Additionally, manufacturers may require specialized equipment, such as blending tanks, mixing vessels, and quality control testing apparatus, to ensure the consistent production of high-quality lubricating oil additives.

The primary output of HS code 381121 is lubricating oil additives, which are then incorporated into a wide range of lubricating oils and greases. These additives help to improve the performance, efficiency, and longevity of lubricating fluids used in various applications, including automotive engines, industrial machinery, and heavy equipment. The lubricating oil additives produced under this code may be consumed by manufacturers of 2710 Petroleum oils and oils obtained from bituminous minerals, other than crude; preparations not elsewhere specified or included, containing by weight 70% or more of petroleum oils or of oils obtained from bituminous minerals, these oils being the basic constituents of the preparations; waste oils and 3403 (Lubricating preparations (including cutting-oil preparations, bolt or nut release preparations, anti-rust or anti-corrosion preparations and mould release preparations, based on lubricants) and preparations of a kind used for the oil or grease treatment of textile materials, leather, furskins or other materials, but excluding preparations containing, as basic constituents, 70% or more by weight of petroleum oils or of oils obtained from bituminous minerals).