Oilers/Plant Tenders (HHC) Civil Service Practice Exam

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What do S.A.E. numbers in lubricant classification indicate?

  1. Flash points

  2. Viscosity

  3. Purity levels

  4. Oil density

The correct answer is: Viscosity

S.A.E. numbers refer to the Society of Automotive Engineers' system for classifying the viscosity of lubricants, particularly motor oils. This classification system provides a way to gauge the flow characteristics of the oil at different temperatures. For instance, a lower S.A.E. number indicates a thinner oil that flows more easily, particularly at colder temperatures, while a higher number indicates a thicker oil that performs better at higher temperatures. This information is critical for selecting the right lubricant for various machinery and engines to ensure they operate efficiently and are protected from wear and tear. Understanding viscosity is essential when determining how well a lubricant will perform under specific operational conditions.