Shell Gadinia AL 40
Shell Gadinia AL 40 is a premium marine diesel engine oil developed for medium-speed trunk piston engines operating on distillate fuels. The lubricant is designed to provide reliable protection and stable lubrication performance in modern marine engines where operating conditions can place significant stress on engine oils. Its balanced formulation supports efficient engine operation while helping maintain internal cleanliness and long-term reliability in demanding marine environments.
A key advantage of Shell Gadinia AL 40 is its ability to control oil consumption in engines where cylinder liner lacquering can occur. Modern marine diesel engines often operate with higher cylinder pressures, elevated combustion temperatures and very high fuel injection pressures. Under these conditions, deposits can form on cylinder liners, filling the honing pattern and reducing oil control. This can lead to increased lubricant consumption and reduced engine efficiency. Shell Gadinia AL 40 is specifically formulated to help manage liner lacquer formation, maintaining proper lubrication conditions and stable oil consumption levels.
The lubricant also delivers excellent piston and crankcase cleanliness, which supports reliable engine performance and improved operational efficiency. By preventing the build-up of harmful deposits inside the engine, the oil helps maintain efficient combustion conditions and stable engine operation over extended service periods. Maintaining clean engine components also contributes to reduced maintenance requirements and improved equipment reliability.
Shell Gadinia AL 40 provides strong load carrying capability, enabling it to perform effectively in reduction gears commonly used in marine propulsion systems. This multifunctional performance allows the lubricant to be used across a range of shipboard applications where specialist gear oils are not required. Its ability to support both engine lubrication and auxiliary gear applications makes it a versatile and practical lubricant choice for marine operators.
The oil also offers a high level of protection against bore polishing, another condition that can increase oil consumption and reduce engine efficiency. By protecting cylinder liner surfaces and maintaining proper lubrication film strength, Shell Gadinia AL 40 helps preserve engine integrity and long-term operational performance. This contributes to lower maintenance costs and improved engine reliability in demanding marine service.
Shell Gadinia AL 40 is recommended for highly rated medium-speed marine diesel engines operating under high load or overload conditions. It is also suitable for general shipboard applications including reduction gears where specialist lubricants are not required.
Typical physical characteristics include kinematic viscosity of 140 mm²/s at 40°C and 14.3 mm²/s at 100°C, density of 0.900 kg/L at 15°C and flash point above 200°C. The lubricant delivers strong load carrying capability with an FZG failure stage of 12 and provides a base number of 15 mg KOH/g to support effective acid neutralisation and engine protection during operation.
