Which of the following is NOT a way that water can contaminate lubricant?

Direct absorption from air is not a recognized mechanism for water contaminating lubricant. While air contains moisture, the process of water being absorbed into lubricant directly from the air is not significant compared to other more direct means of contamination.

In contrast, wash downs involve water being used to clean machinery, and this water can easily mix with lubricants, leading to contamination. Condensation occurs when water vapor in the air cools and condenses on surfaces, which can then drip into lubricant reservoirs, introducing water. Breathers, which are designed to allow for pressure equalization in lubricant systems, can also permit moisture ingress as humid air enters and cooler surfaces allow for condensation.

Overall, the other choices represent direct and probable sources of water contamination in lubricants, whereas direct absorption from the air lacks the same level of impact in practical scenarios.