What is a potential consequence of using a degraded lubricant?

Using a degraded lubricant can significantly affect viscosity, which is crucial for proper lubrication. Viscosity refers to a fluid's resistance to flow, and it plays a vital role in how well the lubricant can form a protective film between moving parts. As lubricants degrade, their chemical composition changes, which can lead to a decrease in their ability to maintain the desired viscosity. This alteration can result in inadequate lubrication, causing increased friction and wear on machinery components.

In essence, when viscosity is affected, it can compromise the overall performance and longevity of equipment, leading to operational inefficiencies and potentially costly failures.