Falling temperatures present installers with the same challenges every year. In recent weeks, our Technical Application Support team has received an increasing number of enquiries regarding the correct processing of pressing tools, batteries and piping systems at low ambient temperatures.

To ensure that your installation remains safe, reliable and compliant with standards even in winter, we have summarised the most important recommendations for you below.

1. Sealing rings: minimum processing temperature and behaviour in cold conditions

Sealing rings are essential for the tightness of a connection and also determine the minimum permissible processing temperature. Our factory-fitted sealing rings limit the processing temperature to –20 °C.

Material behaviour changes at low temperatures: sealing rings made of EPDM, FKM and HNBR become harder and less elastic in frost. This increases the risk that the ring does not sit correctly in the groove, potentially leading to micro-leakage or improper pressings.

Our recommendation:
Check the correct seating of the sealing ring before every pressing operation and, wherever possible, store materials at +10 to +20 °C.

In Germany, we offer practical site containers for this purpose. These lockable containers are equipped with cantilever racking for pipes, can be delivered fully stocked and protect both piping systems and tools from moisture and unauthorised access.

2. Pressing tools: correctly assessing performance at sub-zero temperatures

As temperatures drop, hydraulic oil and lubricants inside pressing tools become more viscous. Increased viscosity affects the hydraulic system and raises internal resistance. As a result, the machine requires more power for movement, which may then be lacking during the actual pressing process.

In general, pressing tools can be used down to –10 °C. However, at extremely low temperatures (below 0 °C), some machines may no longer achieve their full pressing force.

Our recommendation:
Always observe the manufacturer’s specifications for your pressing tool or contact the respective manufacturer directly. Performing a few idle runs can help slightly warm up the hydraulic oil and improve tool operability.

3. Batteries: avoiding performance losses

One of the typical effects of frost is a significant reduction in battery capacity. Cold temperatures have a particularly strong impact on lithium-ion batteries. In addition, internal resistance in the tool increases further due to viscous hydraulic oil (see above).
Below 0 °C, the number of possible pressing cycles decreases noticeably.

Our recommendations for winter operation

• Store batteries in a warm environment (site container, vehicle, indoor areas, insulated bags).

• Warm up cold batteries briefly before use.

• Do not charge batteries at temperatures below +5 °C.

4. Plastic press systems – special care below +5 °C

Plastic reacts more sensitively to cold than metal. Pipes in particular can become brittle when exposed to low temperatures for extended periods. For this reason, multi-layer composite systems should not be processed at temperatures below +5 °C.

Here as well, warm storage or careful pre-heating (e.g. using hot air) helps prevent damage and ensures safe installation.