Hot weather has the potential to seriously impact the functionality and longevity of your construction equipment. High temperatures can cause engine overheating, tire blowouts, and fluid degradation—among other issues. In fact, equipment performance could degrade by up to 15% in temperatures above 90°F. This degradation not only impacts equipment efficiency but also shortens their lifespan.
To avoid heat-related issues, some precautions are necessary.
Inspect the Fluids
Fluids including engine oil, hydraulic fluid, transmission fluid, and coolant should all be checked to ensure they are at their proper levels. If the levels are too low, it could lead to overheating. In addition, the quality of the fluids should be assessed. If they appear dirty or overly viscous, they should be replaced.
Check the Coolant System
The coolant system plays a critical role in managing the machine's temperature. Ensure the coolant is clean and topped off. Check for any leaks in the hoses and ensure that the radiator is clean and not blocked by any debris.
Inspect the Tires
Heat can cause the air inside tires to expand which can lead to a blowout. Tires should be inspected for proper inflation, and the tread and sidewalls should be checked for signs of wear or damage.
Test the Battery
Extreme heat can negatively impact battery life. Test the battery to ensure it's in good working condition.
Check the Air Filter
A clean air filter will improve the performance of the machine and reduce the chance of overheating. If the filter is dirty or clogged, replace it.
Inspect the Belts and Hoses
These components can become soft or brittle in high heat and can lead to a breakdown if they fail. Look for signs of wear or damage and replace as necessary.
Consider the Operator
Make sure you’re dressed appropriately for the heat, are hydrated, and take regular breaks to avoid heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
You can't skip your daily checks and keep up with routine maintenance, especially in hot weather. Speaking of maintenance…
Regular maintenance can go a long way in preserving your equipment. Keeping radiators and oil coolers clean, maintaining optimal fluid levels, and timely replacement of worn-out parts are critical steps. A study featured in the Journal of Construction Engineering and Management found that preventative maintenance can extend the lifespan of heavy equipment by 20%.
While the quality of your fluids is important, it may be worth looking into temperature-specific fluid types. There are special heat-resistant lubricants and coolants to help your equipment run its best. Using them can help protect your equipment under extreme temperatures. According to a Shell Lubricants representative, as temperatures rise, so too should the viscosity of your lubrication due to heat causing lubrication to thin out.
Lubricants aren't the only thing to keep your equipment cool, though.
Operating procedures can also influence how your equipment responds to heat. Precautions such as avoiding excessive idling, operating at optimal RPM, and providing frequent rest periods can help keep your equipment from overheating.
These operating procedures aren’t just good ideas but are also ways to extend the working life of your equipment—even through sweltering temperatures. One study in the Journal of Construction and Engineering Management found that by abiding by standard operating procedures, 100 excavators extended their operational lifespan by 25%.
In addition to precautions taken before and mid-operation, post-operation maintenance is just as important.
- Give the equipment time to cool down: After you're done using the equipment, let it idle for a few minutes before shutting it down. This will help the engine and other components cool down properly.
- Store the equipment in a cool, dry place: If you can, store the equipment in a garage or other covered area. This will help protect it from the sun and the elements.
- Have the equipment serviced regularly: Have a qualified technician service the equipment regularly. This will help catch any problems early on and prevent them from becoming worse.
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