Solid particle contaminants introduced into lubrication systems is one of the leading causes of accelerated failure in mechanical equipment. Contaminants often enter into a lubrication system when fluids are being added or checked. The importance of pouring through clean funnels and using clean cloths to wipe down dipsticks is frequently overlooked in general maintenance and oil changing procedures. Particle contaminants introduced into a system breakdown into smaller particles and get suspended in oil. These particles can scour and gouge surfaces, make the oil more viscous and block oil passages.