Red Seal Industrial Mechanic (Millwright) Practice Exam

What are the consequences of operating machinery with low lubrication?

1. Increased wear, overheating, and potential failure

2. Improved performance and reduced noise

3. No significant impact on machinery

4. Lower energy consumption

The correct answer is: Increased wear, overheating, and potential failure

Operating machinery with low lubrication significantly increases the risk of wear and tear on various components, as lubrication plays a critical role in minimizing friction between moving parts. Insufficient lubrication leads to metal-to-metal contact, which accelerates wear and can result in premature failure of bearings, gears, and other crucial elements. Moreover, inadequate lubrication can cause overheating. Lubricants help in dissipating heat generated by friction; without enough lubricant, temperatures rise quickly, which can damage parts and lead to system breakdowns. This scenario often culminates in costly repairs, downtime, and potentially hazardous conditions if machinery fails while in operation. The other options do not accurately reflect the reality of low lubrication. Improved performance and reduced noise are generally outcomes of proper lubrication, not the result of its absence. Claiming no significant impact on machinery ignores the critical role lubrication plays in machinery health, while lower energy consumption would be counterintuitive, as increased friction due to poor lubrication generally results in higher energy requirements. Therefore, the best choice highlights the severe consequences of operating with low lubrication.