1. Basic Parameters & Standards

• Composition & Standards:
  Formulated with neopentyl polyol esters as the base oil, enhanced with antioxidants, anti-wear agents, antifoam additives, and other compounds (appears as a red transparent liquid). Complies with Chinese Military Standard GJB 1263-1991 and U.S. Military Standard MIL-PRF-23699C, matching international products like BP 2380 and Mobil Jet Oil II.

• Temperature Range:

• Operating Range: -40°C to 200°C (short-term tolerance up to 220°C). Exceptional low-temperature performance: pour point ≤-70°C; kinematic viscosity ≤2500 mm²/s at -54°C, ensuring cold-start reliability.

• High-Temperature Stability: Oxidation stability >30 hours at 100°C; flash point ≥246°C; evaporation loss ≤10% (tested at 120°C).

2. Core Performance Features

• Viscosity-Temperature Properties:

• High viscosity index: 24.2 mm²/s at 40°C and 4.97 mm²/s at 100°C, ensuring stable flow across wide temperature ranges.

• Four-ball wear diameter: 0.45 mm; PB value ≥600N, suitable for high-load friction applications.

• Contamination Resistance & Compatibility:

• Strict particle contamination control (cleaner than competitors); copper strip corrosion rating: 1a; rubber swelling rate ≤5%, compatible with metals and seals.

• Safety & Environmental Adaptability:

• Flame-retardant formulation reduces fire risks; air release time ≤3 minutes; water resistance (total water content ≤0.05%).

3. Applications

• Aviation:

• Military: Used in J-10, Y-20, and Z-8 aircraft engines (e.g., turbofan, turboshaft), including the Spey MK202 engines for JH-7 fighter-bombers.

• Civil: Compatible with Boeing, Airbus, and gas turbine generators.

• Industrial:

• Gas turbines in power and oil industries; high-altitude/extreme-cold machinery (e.g., plateau construction equipment).

4. Key Technical Indicators

5. Market Positioning & Comparisons

• Advantages:

• Cost: 60-70% cheaper than MIL-PRF-23699C-compliant imports; lower pour point (-70°C vs. -60°C).

• Performance: 50% higher oxidation stability vs. older domestic fluids (e.g., No. 10 hydraulic oil), service life >2000 hours.

• Limitations:

• Temperature ceiling (200°C) lags behind full-synthetic oils (e.g., Shell AeroShell Fluid 41, 220°C+).

• Limited low-temperature fluidity (viscosity spikes below -40°C), restricting ultra-cold applications.

6. Technological Trends

• Synthetic Upgrades:
  Current diester-based formula may evolve into PAO or ester-based synthetics to boost temperature tolerance (target: 220°C continuous operation).

• Eco-Friendly Development:
  Reducing sulfur/phosphorus additives; developing ashless, biodegradable formulas to meet aviation regulations (e.g., ICAO CORSIA).

7. Usage & Maintenance Guidelines

• Storage & Transport:

• Store sealed in dry, ventilated areas (10°C–25°C); shelf life: 5 years. Follow SH0164 regulations; avoid sunlight.

• Application:

• Do not mix with other oils (mineral/silicone). Clean systems thoroughly before refilling.

• Replace every 2000 hours or annually (shorten to 1000 hours under extreme conditions).

8. Historical Background & Development

• Origins:
  Developed in 1971 to support imported British Trident aircraft (using Esson 2380 lubricant). Base formula finalized in 1972; passed turboshaft-6 engine bench tests in 1982.

• Milestones:

• Adopted for Z-8 helicopters in 1988; gradually replaced imports post-2000, becoming the primary lubricant for third-generation fighters.

9. Pricing & Supply Chain

• Pricing:
  Post-2020 price increase: RMB 800–1,200 per 4L (varies by batch/year). Older batches (pre-2019) are cheaper but check expiration dates.

• Supply:
  Limited production capacity; prioritized for military use. Civilian market relies on distributors (e.g., Hangcai Technology).

10. Next-Gen Alternatives & Competitors

• 4058 Lubricant:
  Shikeyuan’s upgraded version with 220°C tolerance and reduced carbon buildup; planned to replace 4050.

• Competitors:

• Sinopec 4106: Lower acid value (0.05 mgKOH/g vs. 0.22 mgKOH/g) but higher low-temperature viscosity (-40°C: 9258 mm²/s vs. 9407 mm²/s), suited for industrial turbines.

• Shell Albida EP2: Tolerates 200°C but higher oil separation (≤5%) and 1.5× cost of 4050.

11. Conclusion & Selection Guidance

Recommended For:

• Military aircraft engines, medium-high-temperature industrial turbines, cost-sensitive civil aviation maintenance.

Not Recommended For:

• Ultra-high-temperature (>200°C) operations, extreme cold (-50°C and below), or strong acid/alkali environments.

Market Competitiveness:
As a benchmark for China’s high-end aviation lubricants, the 4050 exemplifies technological progress under the military-civilian integration strategy. Future synthetic upgrades aim to bridge the gap with global leaders.