Shell Argina S3 30
Shell Argina S3 30 is a multifunctional crankcase lubricant developed for highly rated medium-speed trunk piston diesel engines operating on residual fuel and bio-fuels. With a Base Number (BN) of 30, it is specifically designed for conditions of moderate oil stress, offering balanced detergency, oxidation resistance and corrosion protection in both marine and industrial applications.
A key benefit of Shell Argina S3 30 is extended oil life. The formulation has been optimised to resist oxidation and maintain BN retention, helping reduce the amount of oil sweetening required during service. By preserving alkalinity reserves and resisting thermal degradation, the oil supports longer drain intervals and improved cost efficiency for operators.
Shell Argina S3 30 delivers strong engine protection through an optimised detergency system that keeps crankcases, valve decks and pistons exceptionally clean. The formulation has been further refined to reduce deposit formation in critical areas such as piston undercrowns, contributing to lower wear rates and improved engine reliability over extended operating periods.
System efficiency is supported by a high detergency and low dispersancy formulation. This balance enables effective release of contaminants and water in centrifugal separators, promoting cleaner oil circulation and improved separator performance. Shell Argina S3 30 can also be used to top up engines already running on other Argina family oils, providing immediate BN control without the need for a full oil change.
The oil is recommended for medium-speed industrial or marine propulsion and auxiliary engines burning residual fuel oils under moderate oil stress conditions. These conditions typically occur in newer engine designs (less than 10 years old), where oil consumption exceeds 1 g/kWh, load factors are below 85%, and fuel sulphur content is under 3%. It can also be used in marine reduction gears and certain shipboard applications where specialist lubricants are not required.
Shell Argina S3 30 is approved by Wärtsilä and MAN Energy Solutions. Typical physical characteristics include SAE 30 viscosity grade, kinematic viscosity of 11.85 mm²/s at 100°C, viscosity index of 101, BN of 30 mg KOH/g and sulphated ash of 3.8%. It also demonstrates strong load carrying performance in FZG gear testing (failure load stage 11).
