Insights

The Use of Pump Trucks in Cold Storage Areas

Posted on | Posted in General

The use of pump trucks in cold storage areas with typical temperatures of around -30 degrees centigrade may sound unlikely.  In reality, it only needs the trucks to be prepared correctly, serviced frequently and procedures to be carefully followed.

It’s an equally harsh environment for humans but they can be protected with warm clothing and regular breaks in ambient temperatures.  However, it doesn’t follow that pump trucks should be treated in the same way.

Oils and Greases for Cold Temperatures

Commercial aircraft operate in similar temperatures or even lower. For this reason, we use the same grades of oils and greases for pump trucks operating in cold stores.  If we didn’t, the trucks would soon stop working.  The advice therefore, is to bring the load to the airlock and use a truck from the ambient area to take it away.

Leave them in

At first sight it might appear that pump trucks (like humans), should spend as little time as possible in these freezing temperatures.  Actually, exactly the opposite is true.  If the trucks are moved in and out, condensation will soon gather creating rust and risking damage to the seals. If it then re-enters the cold store the condensation will freeze causing further problems.

The advice therefore, is to bring the load to the airlock and use a truck from the ambient area to take it away.

Servicing

Regular service is essential for pump trucks working in such an aggressive environment.   We recommend four or six monthly service and inspection visits as a minimum.

Conclusion

Using mechanical and hydraulic equipment in -30 degrees centigrade need not be a problem.  Buy the correct equipment, mainatain it regularly and leave it in the store.    It’s that simple.  However, if you’re currently experiencing difficulties why not call us on 0161 272 1900 and see if we can help.