Oilers/Plant Tenders (HHC) Civil Service Exam 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The characteristic of lubricating oil that changes with varying operating temperatures is known as viscosity. Viscosity refers to the thickness or resistance to flow of a liquid; it is a crucial property of lubricating oils because it affects their ability to coat and protect moving parts in machinery. As temperatures increase, lubricating oils typically become less viscous (thinner) and flow more easily. Conversely, at lower temperatures, oils tend to become more viscous (thicker), which can impede flow and hinder lubrication.

Understanding viscosity is essential for selecting the appropriate oil for different operating conditions, as it impacts the efficiency and performance of machinery. This adaptability of viscosity to temperature changes is what makes it a key characteristic in evaluating lubricating oils and their suitability for various applications in equipment maintenance and operation.