On May 15, 2018, the Directorate for Standards, Metrology and Quality issued, under Circular No. 06/2018/TT-BKHCN of the Minister of Science and Technology, the National Technical Regulation QCVN 14:2018/BKHCN, which specifies limit values for technical indicators and quality management requirements for lubricants used in internal combustion engines.

Internal combustion engine lubricants are used for 4-stroke engines (four-cycle engines) and 2-stroke engines (two-cycle engines), including:

• Mineral oil: Oil produced from crude petroleum through distillation and processing
• Synthetic oil: Oil created through chemical reactions from base compounds
• Semi-synthetic oil: A blended product of mineral oil and synthetic oil

This regulation does not apply to internal combustion engine lubricants used for security or defense purposes; test samples, exhibition samples, goods for display at fairs; goods in transit, temporarily imported for re-export.

Applicable Subjects of QCVN 14

Applicable subjects include:

• Organizations and individuals engaged in importing, manufacturing, blending, distributing, and retailing internal combustion engine lubricants in Vietnam
• State management agencies and other relevant organizations and individuals

Conformity Assessment Methods

• Method 5: Assessment of production process and testing of typical samples (for domestic manufacturers)

In cases where foreign manufacturers request conformity certification at the production facility in the exporting country, the certification body may conduct on-site evaluation at the production location.

• Method 7: Assessment of product batches and typical sample testing (for importers)

Below is the table specifying detailed limits of technical indicators

Benefits of Conformity Certification for Internal Combustion Engine Lubricants

• Compliance with legal regulations and quality management requirements of the Ministry of Science and Technology and the Directorate for Standards, Metrology and Quality
• Improved product quality, attracting customers, increasing revenue and competitiveness
• Clear quality management processes, improving internal management and optimizing resource utilization, thereby increasing product quality and output
• Ensuring safety during use, preventing low-quality products, reducing risks such as fire and explosion, contributing to environmental protection and enhancing social responsibility

On October 18, 2022, the Directorate for Standards, Metrology and Quality under the Ministry of Science and Technology issued Decision No. 1726/QĐ-TĐC appointing the Institute for Standards and Quality Development Research (ISSQ Quality Institute) to carry out certification for internal combustion engine lubricants in accordance with QCVN 14:2018/BKHCN.

Certification Process at ISSQ Quality Institute

1. Receive application dossiers for certification
2. Sign scientific and technological service contracts
3. Conduct on-site survey and assessment at the enterprise
4. Complete documentation after assessment
5. Appraise dossiers and issue certification (if compliant)
6. Conduct surveillance assessment every 12 months
7. Conduct re-certification assessment (certificate valid for 3 years)

We hope this article provides useful information for our valued customers.

The ISSQ Quality Institute is always ready to accompany enterprises during integration and development.

Please contact hotline: +84981851111 or email: vienchatluong@issq.org.vn | tcvn@issq.org.vn. We are honored to serve you.

Published date: 01/04/2024