What can be a consequence of additive depletion in lubricants?

Additive depletion in lubricants can lead to an increased risk of wear and failures within machinery and equipment. Additives in lubricants, such as anti-wear agents, detergents, dispersants, and antioxidants, are specifically designed to enhance the performance of the lubricant. These additives serve vital functions, including reducing friction, preventing corrosion, and maintaining oil stability under high temperatures.

When these additives become depleted—due to factors like overheating, prolonged service intervals, or contamination—the lubricant's ability to perform these protective functions diminishes. This results in insufficient protection against wear, leading to increased friction between moving parts, higher operating temperatures, and ultimately a higher likelihood of metal-to-metal contact, which can increase the rate of wear. If wear progresses unchecked, it can result in mechanical failures, such as bearing or gear failure, potentially leading to costly downtime and repairs.

In contrast, choices that suggest enhanced effectiveness, improved thermal stability, or reduced viscosity are not accurate reflections of what happens when additives are depleted. In fact, their depletion theorizes the opposite effect—diminished performance and increased vulnerability of the machinery.