What is necessary to ensure freedom from water contamination in a fluid system?

To ensure freedom from water contamination in a fluid system, the dew point of the air must be lower than any temperature that the air can be exposed to within the system. This is pivotal because if the temperature of the air in contact with any surface of the system exceeds the dew point, condensation will occur. This condensation introduces water into the fluid system, leading to contamination.

By maintaining a dew point that is lower than the temperatures the air may encounter, it is ensured that water vapor remains in the gaseous state and does not condense into liquid water, thus safeguarding the integrity of the fluid system and preventing potential damage or failure due to moisture. This control measures are especially crucial in systems where precision and reliability are paramount, such as in hydraulic systems or equipment operations where fluid cleanliness is critical.