FAQ - How Does Temperature Affect Hydraulic Systems?

Hydraulic oil, when it reaches high temperatures can negatively affect a hydraulic system. This can either happen if it’s near a hot environment, or if it works up to that temperature. Machines like cranes or excavators often work long hours during the hot summer months and are susceptible to various dangers.

Too hot of temperature places stress on the internal components and can lead to your hydraulic system’s failure. It can also cause the lubricants and fluids to lose viscosity which could lead to oxidation and making lubricants less efficient at dealing with contaminants.

Cold temperatures can cause problems for plastic seals as they could become brittle and break. The cold weather also increases the viscosity of hydraulic fluids which means that the fluids will take longer to circulate through the system and lower their ability to protect against wear and tear.