How to maintain hydraulic automatic bollards in winter?

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To ensure the normal operation of automatic rising bollards under extreme low temperatures in winter, JIETIAN Technology provides users with fundamental troubleshooting and maintenance recommendations.

1. Can acids, alkali, and salts present in snow corrode the surface of rising bollards?

During formation and descent, snowflakes absorb and dissolve airborne oxides. When temperatures are extremely low, these snowflakes settle on bollard surfaces and remain adhered for extended periods, potentially causing metal corrosion. Currently, many bollard manufacturers prioritize low costs when sourcing column materials, selecting stainless steel with extremely low corrosion resistance. This results in damage to the columns during both snowfall and rainfall.

JIETIAN Technology utilizes internationally certified #SU 304 stainless steel for column bodies, treated with a brushed finish. This ensures excellent corrosion resistance against oxidizing acids, alkaline solutions, and most organic/inorganic acids. Even after years of exposure to rain and snow, JIETIAN’s hydraulic automatic bollards maintain a pristine appearance.

2. Does hydraulic oil thicken under extreme winter cold?

Automatic bollards rely on hydraulic cores for operation. Within the hydraulic system, hydraulic oil serves multiple functions: energy transmission, lubrication, corrosion prevention, rust protection, and cooling. Only with unimpeded hydraulic flow can the core operate efficiently.

During cold winters, the efficient operation of hydraulic systems is closely tied to the type and viscosity of the selected hydraulic oil. Viscosity is undoubtedly a critical factor when selecting hydraulic oil, as it directly impacts the friction and resistance generated on system components, as well as the oil’s flowability. Only high-quality, high-freeze-resistance hydraulic oil can efficiently transmit hydraulic drive energy, ensuring normal operation of the bollards and maintaining lifting speed unaffected by winter cold. Opting for low-quality hydraulic oil solely for profit margins can lead to malfunctions such as failure to raise/lower or significantly slowed operation. Under frequent use, oil temperature may rise rapidly, causing leaks and other issues.

Drawing on over a decade of experience, Jietian Technology has selected aviation hydraulic oil widely used in aerospace vehicles, large vessels, military machinery, and high-speed rail systems. While aviation hydraulic oil entails higher costs, it delivers superior winter performance for customers using Jietian’s fully automatic bollards. In China’s northeastern and northwestern regions—including Heilongjiang Province and Xinjiang Autonomous Region—these bollards operate smoothly and maintain robust power even under extreme conditions of -40°C (-40°F).

3. Will melted snow seep into the interior of retractable rising bollards?

After heavy snowfall, accumulated snow often contains impurities like sand and dust. When melted, this water can seep into the barrier system through gaps. The complex internal structure of retractable bollards means even microscopic particles invisible to the naked eye can sometimes cause malfunctions. This poses a significant challenge to the waterproof sealing performance of electric automatic bollards.

Jietian’s retractable rising bollards achieve the industry’s highest IP68 waterproof rating, featuring highly reliable sealing that prevents fine particles from entering core components and electrical parts. This prevents hydraulic drive failures or degraded electrical insulation that could cause short circuits or leakage, ensuring normal operation of motors and hydraulic units while effectively extending the lifespan of electrical components.

4. Proper daily maintenance is key to extending bollard lifespan

Automatic bollards comprise drive systems and numerous precision components. Neglecting maintenance while focusing solely on usage can lead to cumulative failures over time. Beyond regular inspections of screws and hydraulic fluid, drainage systems and daily cleaning must also be checked. Mastering correct maintenance methods effectively extends the bollard’s operational lifespan.

The impact of extreme cold weather on electrical automation equipment is complex and multifaceted. Ensuring normal operation requires manufacturers to possess thorough product knowledge and extensive installation/maintenance experience. Jietian Technology boasts a professional technical service team. Since its establishment in 2006, we have completed over ten thousand projects and accumulated more than a decade of experience in bollard installation and maintenance. Should you have any questions regarding the use of retractable bollards, please contact Jietian Technology’s service hotline at +86 18259496896. We sincerely look forward to partnering with you.

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