The history of BARREL began long before its current name appeared. Behind it are years of manufacturing development, equipment investments, and laboratory research. Today, we continue this journey under the BARREL brand, executing a comprehensive restoration and technological upgrade plan.
Experience Built Over Years (Since 2019)
Back in 2019, when production operated under the GROM–EX brand, the facility underwent a major modernization stage. Custom-built 40-ton storage tanks equipped with mixing systems, internal heating, and temperature control were added to the automotive oil and antifreeze storage area.
In parallel, the INTERLABTRANS laboratory was developed. By autumn 2019, its testing equipment was fully commissioned. Research capabilities included testing motor oil viscosity parameters according to SAE J300, as well as analyzing nitrogen content and element composition in petroleum products.
Trials and Reconstruction (2022–2023)
On April 30, 2022, as a result of a Russian missile strike, the facility's production capacities were completely destroyed. Years of work, technical engineering solutions, and substantial resources were lost. Despite this heavy loss, a firm decision was made not to stop, but to continue operating.
Throughout 2022–2023, the challenging first phase of rebuilding core capacities took place. This required redesigning production processes and forming a new development strategy focused on creating higher-grade products.
Modernization and Laboratory Center (2024–2025)
The 2024–2025 stage marked a period of deep modernization for both manufacturing machinery and the laboratory complex.
The laboratory took a central position in the company's structure. Laboratory testing became the core foundation for engineering decisions regarding component selection and formulation evaluations. All developments underwent strict testing across key parameters:
- NOACK Volatility: evaluation of oil burn-off loss minimization.
- HTHS Viscosity: verifying oil film strength under high temperature and high shear rates.
- Thermo-oxidative and Shear Stability: ensuring consistent performance parameters from batch to batch throughout the drain interval.
Forming the BARREL Brand and New Formulations (2025–2026)
During 2025–2026, the company fully transitioned to modern formulations and finalized the brand identity — BARREL. Re-engineering the brand brought together engineering practice, scientific research, and high accountability to customers and partners.
Barrel Original Series
In the second half of 2026, the updated Barrel Original engine oil line was officially launched — a brand-new product line formulated to meet the strictest international API and ACEA specifications.
- 3-Level Oxidation Control Technology: a three-stage oxidation control system ensuring high thermo-oxidative stability.
- Reliable Protection: engine wear protection and minimized deposit formation under heavy operating loads.
- Laboratory Control: all critical product parameters (including NOACK and HTHS) undergo rigorous verification.
We cannot change the past, but we shape the future. Today, BARREL confidently moves forward through modernization, research discipline, and the growth of a high-tech Ukrainian lubricant brand.