Jan 4, 2009 – The Journal News: Valhalla startup tries to change conventional thinking on oil changes
http://www.lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2009901040316
By DAVID PATTON
What is it? The microGreen oil filter from SOMS Technologies is a new design that is similar to the paper oil filters used in most passenger cars and trucks but also includes a second filter. The microGreen fits the standard “spin-on” mount found on most cars and trucks and can be used in place of the filters sold at auto parts stores or installed by dealers, quick-lube shops and other auto repair outlets.
Why is it different? The second filter in the microGreen design is made of a patented technology and can capture particles in the oil down to 2 microns without impeding the flow of oil — a hurdle that has limited development of longer-lasting filters in the past. Removing these smaller particles means the engine oil is kept cleaner and can be used longer. Steve Kirchner, SOMS’ chief operations officer says the filter still needs to be changed every 6,000 miles, but the oil can remain in the engine for as much as 30,000 miles. Most vehicles need an oil change between 3,000 and 10,000 miles.
What are the benefits? Changing the oil less frequently saves money and has environmental benefits because less oil is used. SOMS’s Mr. Kirchner says roughly 600 million gallons of oil are used each year in engines. While some of that can be recycled, a good portion is not disposed of properly and can end up as a pollutant. SOMS estimates that the microGreen can cut oil maintenance costs by around 65% to 70%, and uses 70% less oil and fewer filters than conventional designs. Not changing the oil can also save time and hassle. Most drivers should get their oil changed between 3,000 and 6,000 miles, which translates to three to four times a year if you drive 12,000-15,000 miles a year. SOMS suggests changing the filter in the spring and the fall. SOMS has also paid for external tests of oil quality in vehicles using the microGreen filters to show that there is no degradation over the longer use period.
Downsides? The microGreen is two to three times more expensive than normal oil filters, depending on the type of vehicle. But that additional cost is quickly offset by doing fewer oil changes. Still, oil changes are one of the cheapest and quickest things that drivers can do to prolong the life of a car engine – and even improve fuel economy. Many quick lube outlets charge less than $30 for an oil change that can take as little as 10 minutes. An oil change also provides a reason to check over a car or truck for other safety or maintenance issues. The microGreen isn’t available in most auto parts stores. The easiest way to get them is from the online store on the Web site, which launched last month.
