What is a common property of lubricants used in manufacturing processes?

Lubricants commonly employed in manufacturing processes are typically composed of materials such as oil or grease. These substances serve to reduce friction between moving parts, thereby facilitating smoother operation and prolonging the life of machinery. The composition of lubricants can vary, with many formulations designed to meet specific needs of the manufacturing process, such as temperature resistance or adherence qualities, but oil and grease are staple materials due to their effectiveness in providing a lubricating layer.

The other options do not accurately represent the primary role of lubricants. For example, lubricants are designed to decrease friction, rather than increase it. While lubricants can contribute to machine efficiency, their primary function is not to speed up machines significantly or primarily to hasten cutting; instead, they ensure that components function more effectively by minimizing wear and tear during operations.