Course in Additives for Valve and Seat Protection
Online 300-hour course in additives for valve and seat protection. 6 modules covering EN 228 (unleaded petrol), EN 15376 (ethanol as a petrol component) and advanced Excel. Assigned tutor and open enrolment.
Take the controls.
Run a real engineering trade-off from this field. Move the sliders, watch the model react in real time and beat the challenge.
What you will be able to do
Explain the differences between current fuels and lubricants and those of the period.
Analyse valve seat recession and its preventive measures.
Evaluate the effect of ethanol on seals, hoses and fuel circuits.
Select suitable oils and additives for classic engines.
Protect cooling circuits against corrosion and deposits.
Compare the cost and effectiveness of the different solutions available.
Prepare a protection plan tailored to a specific vehicle.
Who it's for
- Lubricants and fuels technician wishing to specialise in Additives for Valve and Seat Protection.
- Classic engine mechanic wishing to specialise in Additives for Valve and Seat Protection.
- Technical adviser to classic car clubs wishing to specialise in Additives for Valve and Seat Protection.
- Oil analysis laboratory technician wishing to specialise in Additives for Valve and Seat Protection.
- Restorer of historic vehicles wishing to specialise in Additives for Valve and Seat Protection.
- Product consultant in additives wishing to specialise in Additives for Valve and Seat Protection.
- Graduates in engineering or sciences seeking to enter classic vehicle restoration.
What you'll work with
- EN 228 (unleaded petrol)
- EN 15376 (ethanol as a petrol component)
- SAE J300 (engine oil viscosity classification)
- ACEA sequences (engine oil classification)
- ISO 1817 (rubber: resistance to liquids)
- ASTM D130 (copper strip corrosion)
- ASTM D471 (effect of liquids on rubber)
6 modules · 300 h
1.1What has changed in petrols and diesels1.2Removal of lead and its consequences1.3Ethanol and biodiesel in current blends1.4Modern oils and withdrawn additives1.5Older materials: seals, gaskets and alloys1.6Symptoms of incompatibility1.7Common industry myths1.8Reliable technical sources1.9The restorer's prudent judgement1.10Workshop: risk diagnosis of a vehicle
2.1The role of lead in valve seats2.2Seat recession and its mechanism2.3Affected and unaffected engines2.4Replacement additives and their composition2.5Available evidence on their effectiveness2.6Dosage and frequency2.7Alternative: hardened insert seats2.8Cost of each solution2.9Occasional use versus intensive use2.10Practical: reasoned decision for three engines
3.1Effect of ethanol on rubbers and plastics3.2Corrosion of metals in the circuit3.3Water absorption and phase separation3.4Degradation of stored petrol3.5Stabilisers and their usefulness3.6Replacing hoses and seals with compatible materials3.7Internal tank coatings3.8Ethanol-free fuels and their availability3.9Fuel storage3.10Practical: adapting a fuel circuit
4.1Oil classification and how to read it4.2Mineral, semi-synthetic and fully synthetic oils4.3Anti-wear additives and their reduction4.4Engines with flat tappets4.5Oils specific to classic cars4.6Appropriate viscosity for each engine4.7Change intervals for low-mileage vehicles4.8Miracle additives and healthy scepticism4.9Oil analysis4.10Practical: oil selection for three engines
5.1Antifreeze and its families5.2Inhibitors and metal protection5.3Electrolysis in the circuit5.4Compatibility with older seals5.5Brake fluids and their hygroscopy5.6Hydraulic and power steering fluids5.7Greases and their compatibility with seals5.8Incompatible mixtures and their effects5.9Change frequency5.10Practical: fluid plan for a vehicle
6.1Modifying the engine versus using additives6.2Record of what has been applied to each vehicle6.3Annual cost of additives6.4Honest communication with the owner6.5Evidence versus marketing6.6Show vehicle versus daily-use vehicle6.7Common errors and faults attributed to additives6.8Sources for staying up to date6.9Documented real-world cases6.10Final project: fluids and additives protocol for a collection
How you'll learn
Fully 100 % online training on the SEIUM campus, with downloadable material, recorded classes and an assigned technical tutor. No fixed timetable: students progress at their own pace within the intake, which makes it possible to combine study with work.
Each module combines theory, guided reading of the original standard and applied exercises. The working software is advanced Excel, Python (pandas), Minitab, Zotero, in free, academic or evaluation versions. Tests are studied using real procedures for immersing seals in ethanol-blended fuel, analysis of used oil, and inspection of valve seat recession. Assessment is continuous across each module, plus the final integrating project.
Build it end to end
Your final project follows the real engineering workflow, step by step, reviewed by your tutor.
Explain the differences between current fuels and lubricants and those of the period.
Analyse valve seat recession and its preventive measures.
Evaluate the effect of ethanol on seals, hoses and fuel circuits.
Select suitable oils and additives for classic engines.
Protect cooling circuits against corrosion and deposits.
Where this takes you
Requirements
- No prior degree is required.
- Internet connection and a computer capable of running the programme's software.
- Sufficient command of Spanish to follow technical regulatory reading.
Ready to start?
Send your application today. Our admissions team replies within 72 hours with your study plan and funding options.
Frequently asked questions
The programme totals 300 hours, spread over 3 to 5 months. That is an average of 10 to 15 hours per week, compatible with a full-time job.
The course uses advanced Excel, Python (pandas), Minitab and Zotero. Free, academic or evaluation versions are used, and the tutor will indicate the open-source alternative where one exists.
An own SEIUM diploma upon passing continuous assessment and the final integrating project. This is in-house training, not an official qualification from the Ministry.
Yes. Modules passed on a course or postgraduate diploma in the same area can be credited towards the higher-level programme. Consult the credit transfer policy when you enrol.
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