In low-temperature environments, the
operational status of crane systems is directly impacted by changes in fluid
performance. Improper fluid selection or usage can easily lead to difficult
starts, sluggish movements, abnormal wear, or even systemic failures.
Therefore, the core of scientific winter crane maintenance lies in the rational
selection and standardized management of critical fluids. The following
provides a systematic overview of winter crane maintenance essentials across
four categories: engine oil, hydraulic oil, gear oil, and lubricating grease.
I. Engine Oil: The Key to Ensuring Cold Start Lubrication
Under low-temperature conditions, ordinary
or degraded engine oil experiences significantly reduced fluidity. During cold
starts, it struggles to reach friction points promptly, potentially causing dry
friction on critical components like pistons and crankshafts. This accelerates
wear and may trigger localized overheating, compromising overall engine
longevity.
Winter requires oil with excellent
low-temperature fluidity and appropriate viscosity grade. Generally, the lower
the number preceding the “W” in the oil grade designation, the better the
cold-start performance and stronger the cold-start protection. Select winter
oil corresponding to the lowest ambient temperature in the equipment's
operating region and replace it promptly at specified intervals to ensure
reliable engine lubrication in cold conditions.
II. Hydraulic Fluid: Adequate Preheating Required in Cold Conditions
In cold environments, hydraulic fluid
viscosity increases and fluidity decreases. If equipment is put into operation
without adequate preheating, it can lead to sluggish operation, abnormal system
pressure, and even damage to hydraulic pumps, valve assemblies, and piping.
After starting the engine in winter,
maintain low-speed idle operation to gradually warm the hydraulic oil. Perform
light-load operations to ensure thorough circulation throughout the system.
Only transition to normal operation once the hydraulic system stabilizes. This
approach effectively reduces failure risks while enhancing system stability and
service life.
III. Gear Oil: Seasonal Protection for Transmission Systems
Gear oil serves critical functions in
lubrication, cooling, and rust prevention. Over time, its performance degrades,
and at low temperatures, excessive viscosity can prevent the formation of an
effective oil film. This leads to direct friction between gear meshing
surfaces, accelerating wear and potentially causing transmission system
failures.
Before winter sets in, inspect and clean
critical transmission components like axles and reducers. Replace the gear oil
with a low-temperature formulation to ensure gear pairs receive stable,
continuous lubrication protection even in frigid conditions.
IV. Lithium-Based Grease Lubrication: Preventing Abnormal Wear in Critical Joints
Lithium-based grease is widely used in
critical areas like rotating mechanisms and hinge points, serving as a vital
protective medium against direct metal contact. In low-temperature
environments, standard grease may harden or lose fluidity. If contaminated with
dust or impurities, it can transform from a “lubricant” into a “source of
wear,” causing latent damage to structural components.
During winter, select grease grades suitable
for low-temperature conditions. Regularly remove old grease sludge and
replenish with fresh grease. Establish reasonable maintenance cycles based on
operating conditions, typically recommending inspections and replenishment
every 7 to 15 days to ensure sustained lubrication effectiveness.
The key to winter crane maintenance lies in fully recognizing the performance changes of critical fluids. By scientifically selecting engine oil, hydraulic fluid, gear oil, and grease, and adhering to standardized startup and maintenance procedures, operational risks caused by low temperatures can be effectively reduced. This minimizes failure rates, extends equipment lifespan, and ensures cranes maintain safe, efficient, and stable operation even under winter conditions.

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