How to Care for Hydraulic Hoses During Winter

 

As temperatures drop during the winter months, maintaining hydraulic systems and winter hose care becomes a top priority for ensuring equipment performance and longevity. Hydraulic hoses, being integral to the system, are particularly vulnerable to damage in colder conditions. Extreme cold can cause hoses to stiffen, crack, or fail prematurely, leading to costly downtime and repairs. By taking proactive steps, you can protect your hydraulic hoses and keep your operations running smoothly throughout the winter months. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you look after your hydraulic hoses in the colder season.

  1. Choose the correct hose for the Cold

Not all hydraulic hoses are created equal, especially when it comes to temperature resistance. Standard hoses may stiffen and crack in freezing temperatures, while low-temperature hoses are designed to remain flexible in the cold.

Key Tip: When operating in winter conditions, switch to hoses rated for low temperatures. Look for materials like synthetic rubber, which offers better performance in extreme cold.

  1.  Inspect Hoses Regularly

Cold weather can exacerbate existing weaknesses in hydraulic hoses, leading to sudden failures.

  • Visual Inspections: Check for cracks, abrasions, or bulging that may indicate wear and tear.
  • Touch Test: Run your hand along the hose (when it’s not under pressure) to feel for stiff or brittle areas.
  • Fittings Check: Ensure that the fittings are secure and free from corrosion, as cold temperatures can cause metals to contract and loosen connections.
  1. Pre-Warm Equipment

Starting equipment cold can place undue stress on hydraulic systems.

  • Allow the system to run at idle to warm up the hydraulic fluid and hoses before operating at full capacity.
  • Consider storing equipment in a heated garage or using heating blankets designed for hydraulic systems.
  1. Use Cold-Weather Hydraulic Fluids

Hydraulic fluid viscosity changes with temperature, becoming thicker in the cold, which can increase pressure and strain on hoses.

Pro Tip: Switch to a hydraulic fluid designed for low temperatures. These fluids maintain proper flow characteristics and reduce stress on hoses and seals.

  1. Protect Hoses from Snow, Ice, and Debris

Ice build-up can cause wear on hydraulic hoses, while snow and debris can lead to external damage.

  • Shield Hoses: Use protective covers or wraps to shield hoses from ice and snow.
  • Elevate Hoses: Keep hoses off the ground to prevent them from freezing to icy surfaces.
  1. Avoid Sharp Bends and Kinks

Cold temperatures make hoses less flexible, increasing the risk of kinking.

  • Proper Installation: Ensure hoses are routed correctly to avoid sharp bends.
  • Support Structures: Use clamps or brackets to maintain proper alignment and reduce strain.
  1. Monitor for Pressure Surges

Cold temperatures can cause sudden pressure changes in the system, putting stress on hoses.

  • Install pressure relief valves to prevent spikes.
  • Gradually build up pressure during start up instead of immediately operating at high loads.
  1. Regular Maintenance Schedule

Winter is a critical time to stick to a maintenance routine, contact Pirtek about their planned maintenance service.

  • Schedule Preventative Maintenance: Inspect and service your hydraulic system regularly to address issues before they escalate.
  • Stock Spare Hoses: Keep replacements on hand to minimise downtime in case of failure.
  1. Educate Your Team

Your team plays a key role in protecting hydraulic hoses during winter.

  • Train operators on proper warm-up procedures and inspection techniques.
  • Emphasize the importance of reporting any abnormalities, such as stiffness or leaks, promptly.

Conclusion

Proper care of hydraulic hoses during winter is essential for maintaining the efficiency and reliability of your hydraulic systems. By selecting the right hoses, performing regular inspections, and adapting your maintenance routine to the colder weather, you can significantly reduce the risk of hose failures and downtime. With these proactive measures, your equipment will be ready to tackle winter’s challenges head-on.

Keep your operations running smoothly by making winter care a priority today, but should an emergency occur or you need our expert winter hose care support, dial 0800 38 24 38 for our 24/7 emergency on site hydraulic service.