Base oil
Base oil is the primary component used in the production of lubricants, including motor oil and industrial lubricants. Derived from refining crude oil, it constitutes a significant portion of the final lubricant product. Base oils are categorized into groups based on their refining process and the presence of certain chemical compounds, with Group I being the least refined and Group IV being fully synthetic. These oils are crucial for reducing wear and friction in mechanical systems, offering varying degrees of protection, performance, and compatibility with additives to enhance lubricant properties.