As strong cold fronts continue to move
southward, winter conditions such as low temperatures, rain, snow, and freezing
are gradually emerging. Affected by ambient temperatures, the performance of
fluids in crane systems undergoes significant changes. Improper maintenance can
easily lead to issues like difficult starts, sluggish operation, and abnormal
component wear, ultimately impacting construction efficiency and equipment
safety.
To ensure safe, stable, and efficient crane
operation during winter conditions, focus must be placed on “winter oil
management” for the engine, hydraulic system, transmission system, and critical
lubrication points. Below is a technical analysis of key winter maintenance
points for these four critical fluids.
I. Engine Oil: Ensuring Cold Start and
Preventing Dry Friction
In low-temperature environments, aged
engine oil experiences reduced flowability due to oxidation, contamination, and
increased viscosity. During cold engine starts, if oil fails to rapidly reach
lubrication points, critical components like pistons, crankshafts, and bearing
shells may experience insufficient lubrication. This can lead to abnormal wear
and potentially cause cylinder scoring or bearing seizure.
Therefore, promptly replace engine oil with
a grade suitable for low-temperature conditions during winter. When selecting
oil, focus on the number preceding the “W” in the grade designation. A lower
number indicates superior low-temperature flow properties and enhanced
cold-start protection. Consult equipment manuals and local minimum ambient
temperatures to choose the appropriate oil grade, ensuring reliable engine
lubrication in cold conditions.
II. Hydraulic Fluid: Prioritize Preheating
to Ensure System Responsiveness
The hydraulic system is central to crane
operation. In winter, low temperatures increase hydraulic fluid viscosity and
flow resistance. Immediate loading operations may cause sluggish movements,
abnormal system pressure, or damage to hydraulic pumps, valve assemblies, and
lines.
When starting equipment in cold conditions,
first idle the engine to gradually warm up the hydraulic oil and restore its
normal flow properties before commencing operations. Additionally, regularly
inspect the oil condition and, if necessary, replace it with hydraulic oil
offering superior low-temperature performance to prevent system failures caused
by unsuitable oil for the operating conditions.
III. Gear Oil: Seasonal Replacement for
Transmission System Protection
Transmission components like axles and
reducers operate under sustained high loads, demanding superior gear oil
performance. During winter, long-term use can cause viscosity changes and oil
film breakdown, leading to inadequate lubrication at gear meshing points. This
results in abnormal wear, noise, and even corrosion.
It is recommended to clean and inspect the
transmission system before winter arrives, replacing the gear oil with a grade
suitable for low-temperature conditions. This ensures a stable oil film forms
on gear surfaces, reducing wear risks and extending the transmission system's
service life.
IV. Lithium-Based Grease: Prevent Hardening
and Contamination
Lithium-based grease is widely used in
critical crane components such as slewing, articulation, and support joints,
serving to isolate, lubricate, and protect these areas. However, in
low-temperature environments, standard greases tend to harden. If contaminated
with dust or old sludge, they may exacerbate friction, creating a “grinding
effect.”
During winter, select grease grades
suitable for low-temperature conditions. Regularly remove old grease and
replenish with fresh grease. It is recommended to inspect and maintain critical
lubrication points every 7–15 days based on operational intensity to ensure the
lubrication layer remains effective.
Winter oil selection and lubrication
management are critical components of seasonal crane maintenance. Through
scientific oil selection, standardized oil changes, proper preheating, and
regular lubrication, the impact of low temperatures on equipment can be
effectively mitigated, reducing failure risks and ensuring continuous, stable
operation in cold conditions.
Adhering to the principle of “prevention first, standardized maintenance” is essential for truly extending equipment lifespan, providing robust support for winter construction safety and efficiency.
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