Oilers/Plant Tenders (HHC) Civil Service Practice Exam

What is the effect of filtering oil through cotton waste or cloth filters?

1. It enhances the oil's performance

2. It removes excess water from oil

3. It does not remove excess water from oil

4. It increases oil viscosity

The correct answer is: It does not remove excess water from oil

Filtering oil through cotton waste or cloth filters is primarily a mechanical process aimed at removing particulate matter, such as dirt and impurities, that can affect the quality and performance of the oil. While such filters can be effective for capturing solid contaminants, they are not designed to address the removal of excess water from oil. The presence of water in oil can lead to a number of issues, including reduced lubrication effectiveness and potential corrosion of engine components. However, because water and oil do not mix and have different densities, filtering through materials like cotton or cloth will not effectively separate and remove water droplets. Instead, the filtering process focuses on the physical separation of solid particles. Therefore, stating that filtering through these mediums does not remove excess water from oil accurately reflects the limitations of this method. Understanding these principles is crucial for ensuring that oil remains in an optimal condition for its intended use, particularly in mechanical and industrial processes where water contamination is a concern.