22 Feb 2026
Vertex Energy Inc. has broadened its base oil portfolio with the introduction of VTX-R6, a 6 cSt Group III re-refined base oil (RRBO). The new grade follows the earlier launch of VTX-R4 and adds a higher-viscosity option, enabling lubricant blenders to formulate finished products requiring greater viscosity.
Vertex Energy Inc. has broadened its base oil portfolio with the introduction of VTX-R6, a 6 cSt Group III re-refined base oil (RRBO). The new grade follows the earlier launch of VTX-R4 and adds a higher-viscosity option, enabling lubricant blenders to formulate finished products requiring greater viscosity.
Based in Houston, Vertex Energy is a leading specialty refiner of base oils and conventional fuels. The company operates one of the largest used motor oil collection and processing networks in the United States, with an annual nationwide processing capacity exceeding 115 million gallons. Its key assets include a 75,000 barrel-per-day refinery in Mobile, producing gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, and Group III base oils, as well as a re-refinery in Marrero. Vertex also runs the Heartland facility in Ohio, which focuses on Group II+ base oil production.
According to the company, 6 cSt base oils are typically used in applications where enhanced film thickness and durability are essential, including heavy-duty and passenger car engine oils, as well as certain industrial and driveline lubricants.
Together, VTX-R4 and VTX-R6 provide greater formulation flexibility, allowing blenders to create a well-balanced base oil slate. Lower-viscosity stocks help meet cold-temperature performance and fuel-efficiency requirements, while higher-viscosity grades contribute strength and thermal stability at operating temperatures.
Erica Snedegar, Vice President of Business Development at Vertex, stated that VTX-R6 expands the company’s capability to support a broader spectrum of lubricant formulations. She described the product as a logical extension of Vertex’s re-refining platform and its focus on dependable supply.
VTX-R6 will be manufactured through Vertex’s integrated re-refining model, which uses a split-site process. Used motor oil is first converted into vacuum gas oil (VGO) feedstock at the Marrero facility, and the VGO is then upgraded into Group III base oils at the Mobile refinery.
The company added that its logistics infrastructure in Mobile, along with terminal operations in Cincinnati, enables efficient distribution to both domestic and international markets.
The detailed article is published and can be accessed from https://api.vertexenergy.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Vertex-Energy-Expands-Group-III-Base-Oil-Portfolio-with-VTX-R6_Press-Release.pdf
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