Why Aircraft Engine oil is carried in Tin cans instead of plastic ?

Question

There must be a specific reason for this, car oil is stored in plastic, and would be more efficient?

Answer 1

Turbine oil is the only thing that comes in the tin cans. It is always synthetic and low viscosity. The main reason for the can rather than a bottle is for identification. Manufactures know pilots aren't always the brightest people, and mechanics or line guys aren't much better. By using a completely different style of container for turbine oil, it nearly eliminates the chances someone would accidently put some 100W in a turbine.

This is very important because of the high heat and close tolerances of jet engines, they are designed to run one type of oil and one type only. Even mixing turbine oils, (ie, mobil 2 and 2380) can cause problems.

Its just to make sure the right oil gets into the engine.

Answer 2

Depends on the brand... most aircraft engine oil IS in plastic bottles...

Answer 3

turbine engines

Answer 4

I've seen both. It's mainly oil for turbine engines that is in the "tin can".

Answer 5

Only turbine oil comes in tins.  I think because it's chemical make up is much more hazardous and it would eat though plasitic.  I know there is some pretty nasty stuff in turbine oil.  I also know that it is imposible to get 2380 stains out of clothing.

Answer 6

I have 8 cases of aviation oil in my hangar right now - and they are all in PLASTIC containers.