Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of oil used in lubrication?

The characteristic that is not typically associated with oils used in lubrication is foaming tendency. In lubrication contexts, oils are designed to minimize problems such as foaming, which can adversely affect their performance. Foaming can lead to increased wear and tear on machinery and reduced lubrication efficiency because it creates air pockets that prevent the oil from providing a consistent layer of protection over surfaces needing lubrication.

On the other hand, durability, viscosity, and temperature tolerance are essential qualities for lubrication oils. Durability refers to the oil's ability to maintain its lubricating properties under various conditions, while viscosity indicates how thick or thin the oil is, which impacts its flow and effectiveness at different temperatures. Temperature tolerance is crucial as it signifies the oil's ability to remain stable and effective in varying thermal conditions. These characteristics ensure that the oil can protect machinery effectively over time, while foaming is an undesirable trait that lubrication oils should avoid.