Sterntube Oils from Vickers Oils

HYDROX BIO is a range of biodegradable stern tube oils based on synthetic esters with a high renewable content. The oils are emulsifiable and meet the US EPA definition of an Environmentally Acceptable Lubricant (EAL) under the 2013 Vessel General Permit (VGP). They absorb water ingress to form a stable emulsion that provides excellent lubrication and corrosion protection even when water is present. Available in viscosity grades ISO VG 68, 100, 150 and 220.

ECOSTERN SMX 100 is an environmentally acceptable (EAL) stern tube oil based on renewable synthetic esters, with viscosity ISO VG 100. Unlike HYDROX BIO it is non-emulsifiable and separates off water ingress rather than forming an emulsion. This makes it suited to owners who prefer to separate and drain water from the stern tube.

For vessels that do not require an EAL, Vickers offers a broad mineral-oil-based range. These oils are emulsifiable and draw on many decades of marine experience.

HYDROX 550: mineral-based stern tube oil (ISO VG 68, SAE 30) for regular running in the stern tube and some stabilisers. Recommended by the bearing and seal manufacturers and verified by Lloyds Register.

HYDROX 21: known as "first aid for stern tubes". A high-viscosity mineral oil used as an emergency measure to reduce oil leakage past a damaged aft seal, typically cutting the leakage rate by around 70 percent. Can be added as a top-up to the existing oil.

NEOX 8000: high-viscosity mineral oil for compression seals and older face seals with non-circulatory oil feed. Dramatically reduces wear to stern tube bearings in the event of sea water ingress. Not recommended for use with elastomer lip stern seals.

NEOX D: high-viscosity, grease-like lubricant applied using a grease applicator. For stern tube bearings and compression seals, and trunnion bearings on some older Rolls Royce (Brown Brothers) retractable fin stabilisers.

NEOX DT and NEOX DTX: mineral-based soft greases for grease-lubricated stern tubes, wire ropes and rigging, container lashings, hatch cover bearings and runners, deck winches and slipway rails, and for grease packing in CPP hub units. NEOX DT has a consistency approximating NLGI No. 2 and NEOX DTX approximates NLGI No. 4.

Note that the mineral-based HYDROX and NEOX products are not EALs and therefore do not meet the VGP requirement for environmentally acceptable lubricants.

An emulsifying stern tube oil absorbs sea or fresh water ingress and forms a stable emulsion that continues to provide lubrication and corrosion protection. This is a proven strategy when water ingress is hard to eliminate entirely. A non-emulsifying oil instead separates off the water so it can be drained, which some owners prefer for longer oil life and easier monitoring of water content.

Why choose Vickers Oils stern tube oils?

• Approvals from leading seal manufacturers and classification societies
• Emulsifying and non-emulsifying options for different operating philosophies
• Both EALs and mineral oils in the same range
• Excellent lubrication and corrosion protection even when water ingress occurs
• Proven performance since 1971 (HYDROX 21)
• Long oil life and fewer oil changes

Frequently asked questions

What is a stern tube oil?
A stern tube oil lubricates the bearings and seals in the stern tube, protects against corrosion and handles water that may enter. The choice of oil depends on seal type, operating conditions and environmental requirements.

What is the difference between an emulsifying and a non-emulsifying EAL?
An emulsifying EAL absorbs water ingress to form a stable emulsion that continues to lubricate. A non-emulsifying EAL separates off the water so it can be drained. Both meet the VGP definition of an EAL.

When does HYDROX BIO fit?
HYDROX BIO fits stern tubes that require an emulsifying, biodegradable EAL under the VGP, in viscosity grades ISO VG 68 to 220.

When does ECOSTERN SMX 100 fit?
When the owner prefers to separate off water ingress rather than form an emulsion, and where a non-emulsifying EAL under the VGP is required.

When is HYDROX 21 used?
As an emergency measure to quickly reduce oil leakage past a damaged aft seal, typically cutting the leakage rate by around 70 percent.

Which mineral-based options are available?
HYDROX 550 for regular running, HYDROX 21 for emergency reduced oil leakage, NEOX 8000 and NEOX D for compression seals, and NEOX DT and NEOX DTX for grease-lubricated stern tubes.

Are the mineral oils EALs?
No. HYDROX 550, HYDROX 21 and the NEOX products are mineral-oil-based and do not meet the VGP requirement for environmentally acceptable lubricants. For VGP-requiring applications, use HYDROX BIO or ECOSTERN SMX 100.

Contact us for advice
Need help choosing the right stern tube oil for your vessel and seal type? Contact us for technical advice, product data sheets and quotes across the full Vickers Oils stern tube range.