Shell Melina S30
Shell Melina S30 is a high-performance multifunctional lubricant developed specifically for use in low speed marine diesel engines. The oil is formulated to provide reliable machinery protection and efficient engine operation in demanding marine environments. Designed for highly rated marine engines, Shell Melina S 30 delivers strong protection against corrosion, wear and deposit formation while supporting consistent engine performance. Its multifunctional formulation allows ship operators to rationalise the number of lubricant grades carried on board, simplifying maintenance and inventory management.
One of the key advantages of Shell Melina S30 is its ability to protect engines against corrosive combustion by-products. In marine diesel engines, cylinder oil drains can sometimes leak past piston rod glands and enter the crankcase system, introducing highly corrosive acids. Shell Melina S30 is formulated to effectively neutralise these acids, helping protect metal surfaces from corrosion and reducing the risk of engine damage. This protection contributes to improved engine reliability and longer component life.
The oil also provides excellent detergency to help maintain engine cleanliness. Effective detergency helps keep crankcases and under-piston spaces clean by preventing the accumulation of harmful deposits and sludge. Maintaining clean internal engine components helps ensure efficient engine operation, improved reliability and reduced maintenance requirements over time.
Another important feature of Shell Melina S30 is its good oxidation stability. High operating temperatures and prolonged service can lead to oil degradation in marine engine systems. The oil’s strong resistance to oxidation helps combat thermal breakdown and extend the useful life of the lubricant. This contributes to reduced oil consumption and lower maintenance costs, helping ship operators maintain efficient and reliable vessel operation.
Shell Melina S30 also offers excellent water separation characteristics, allowing water contamination to be easily removed through centrifugation systems commonly used in marine applications. In addition, the oil provides good air release and antifoam properties, allowing air to separate quickly from the lubricant without excessive foaming. These characteristics help maintain stable lubrication performance and ensure efficient oil circulation within the engine system.
The oil’s extreme pressure performance makes it suitable for a wide range of marine auxiliary equipment and applications. Shell Melina S30 can be used in low speed marine diesel engine crankcase and piston cooling systems, turbochargers, geared transmissions, oil-lubricated stern tubes and deck machinery. It is also suitable for ancillary equipment that requires an SAE 30 lubricant. However, the product is not recommended for trunk-piston engines.
Physical characteristics include a kinematic viscosity of approximately 104 mm²/s at 40°C and 11.6 mm²/s at 100°C with a viscosity index of around 102. The oil has a density of approximately 0.888 kg/l at 15°C, a flash point of approximately 227°C and a pour point of approximately –18°C. It also provides a total base number of approximately 5 mg KOH/g, supporting effective acid neutralisation during operation.
