Shell Argina S3 40
Shell Argina S3 40 is a multifunctional crankcase lubricant developed for highly rated medium-speed trunk piston diesel engines operating on residual, blended, distillate or bio fuels. With a Base Number (BN) of 30 and SAE 40 viscosity grade, it is specifically designed for conditions of moderate oil stress, delivering balanced detergency, corrosion protection and reliable long-term performance.
A key benefit of Shell Argina S3 40 is extended oil life. The BN30 formulation has been optimised to resist oxidation and maintain alkalinity, reducing the need for oil sweetening and supporting longer service intervals. By preserving BN retention under moderate stress conditions, the oil helps operators control operating costs while maintaining engine protection.
Shell Argina S3 40 provides strong engine protection through an optimised detergency system that promotes exceptionally clean crankcases, valve decks and pistons. The formulation has been further refined to reduce deposit build-up in critical areas such as piston undercrowns, contributing to lower wear rates and improved engine reliability over time.
System efficiency is enhanced by a high detergency and low dispersancy formulation that enables effective release of contaminants and water in centrifugal separators. This improves oil cleanliness and separator performance, supporting stable lubrication conditions throughout the service interval. Shell Argina S3 40 can also be used to top up engines operating on other Argina family products, providing immediate BN control without requiring a full oil change.
The oil is recommended for medium-speed industrial or marine propulsion and auxiliary engines burning residual fuels 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 may also be used in marine reduction gears and certain other shipboard applications where specialist lubricants are not required.
Shell Argina S3 40 is approved by Wärtsilä and MAN Energy Solutions. Typical physical characteristics include SAE 40 viscosity grade, kinematic viscosity of 13.7 mm²/s at 100°C, viscosity index of 101, BN of 30 mg KOH/g and sulphated ash content of 3.8%. It also demonstrates strong load carrying performance in FZG gear testing (failure load stage 11).
