PC-12 Engine Oil: New Emission Standards and Improved Performance

The Future of Heavy Duty Engine Oils

As the heavy duty engine landscape undergoes significant changes, a new category of engine oil is on the horizon: Proposed Category 12 (PC-12). This next-generation oil category is being developed to meet the evolving needs of both engine manufacturers and fleet operators, addressing stricter emissions regulations and advancements in engine technology.

At Phillips 66 our team of scientists possesses some of the brightest innovative minds in the industry. The same innovative thinking that brought you Liquid Titanium Technology. Together, we are working shoulder to shoulder with our industry-leading OEM partners and additive suppliers to understand the requirements and challenges that the industry will face with the introduction of PC-12 in 2027.

Why PC-12 Is Needed: Emission Reductions and Engine Advancements

In December 2022, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) finalized new regulations that require a substantial reduction in nitrogen oxide (NOx) and particulate matter (PM) emissions from heavy-duty diesel engines. These rules, which go into effect for Model Year 2027 engines, aim for a 75% reduction in NOx emissions and a 50% reduction in PM emissions. Additionally, stricter greenhouse gas (GHG) emission standards are being phased in, and there is a greater emphasis on extending the service life of components like aftertreatment systems, including diesel particulate filters (DPFs) and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems. These aftertreatment systems must now last up to 800,000 miles, a significant increase from the previous 435,000-mile requirement.

To meet these stricter emission standards, engine manufacturers are pushing the envelope on engine technology. However, as engines evolve, so too must the lubricants that protect them. This is where the new PC-12 oil category comes into play. The API (American Petroleum Institute), in collaboration with the Truck and Engine Manufacturers’ Association (EMA) and the Diesel Engine Oil Advisory Panel (DEOAP), has created PC-12 to ensure that engine oils continue to meet the evolving needs of modern engines while maintaining high performance and long service life.

Key Features of PC-12

PC-12 will build upon previous oil categories such as API CK-4 and FA-4, which were introduced in 2016. These oils helped improve oxidation stability, shear stability, and aeration control while also enabling better fuel efficiency. The next step with PC-12 is to continue advancing oil technology with lower viscosities, improved oxidation stability, enhanced wear protection and improved aftertreatment performance.

The Two Subcategories of PC-12

The PC-12 upgrade is designed to bring several critical benefits to both engine manufacturers and fleet operators. These include:

1. Improved Fuel Economy: By allowing the use of lower-viscosity oils, PC-12 will enable better fuel efficiency, which translates into reduced fuel consumption and lower operational costs. The reduction in fuel consumption will also help reduce GHG emissions, supporting environmental goals.
2. Extended Oil Drain Intervals (ODI): Enhanced oxidation stability and wear protection will allow for longer oil drain intervals, which reduces maintenance costs and downtime for fleets. This is especially beneficial for fleets operating in high-mileage and long-haul applications.
3. Better Engine and Aftertreatment Protection: PC-12’s advanced wear protection and oxidation stability features will ensure that modern engines and aftertreatment systems are well-protected, helping to prolong their lifespan and reduce the risk of failures.
4. Future-Proofing Oil Technology: With the introduction of even lower viscosities and more stringent chemical limits, PC-12 will future-proof engine oil technology to accommodate further advancements in engine designs and emission-control technologies.

When Will PC-12 Be Available?

The first licensing date for PC-12 is anticipated to be January 1, 2027, aligning with the introduction of Model Year 2027 engines. This means that the oils will be officially available for use shortly before the 2027 model year, allowing engine manufacturers, fleets, and oil suppliers to adapt to the new standards.

The Road Ahead

As our team works to dial in our new formulations to meet the new standards, you can be assured that Phillips 66 will provide high-quality engine oils that will exceed the standards. We plan to offer excellent oxidation stability, robust wear protection, and will provide customers with the knowledge and tools to have a successful extended oil drain program.

A key focus we believe is the most important function of your engine is WEAR CONTROL. Some are focused on sulfated ash, and others are boasting greater oxidation stability and incredible fuel savings. However, wear protection directly impacts the health of your assets and affects your bottom line. Given the new standards and the squeeze on the chemical box, wear control is going to be critical with PC-12.

Understanding the changes to oil specifications and planning accordingly will help ensure a smooth transition as the new oils become available. If you’re planning to purchase new trucks in 2027, be prepared to meet the new emission standards.

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