What does the pour point of oil indicate?

The pour point of oil indicates the lowest temperature at which the oil remains pourable, meaning it can flow. This characteristic is crucial for understanding how oil will behave in colder conditions. When temperatures drop below the pour point, the oil can become viscous or even solidify, making it difficult or impossible to pump or transfer. Therefore, knowing the pour point helps in selecting lubricants for various applications, particularly in environments where low temperatures are a factor.

In contrast, the temperature at which oil solidifies would be more specifically referred to as the "solidification point" or "freezing point." The ideal operating temperature for oil is a different measure related to performance and efficiency, while the ignition temperature pertains to fire safety and not fluidity characteristics.