📞 +1 877-742-2878

FREE SHIPPING ON QUALIFYING ITEMS

How to Avoid Cold Weather Damage

In the coming winter months, as temperatures begin to drop below freezing, precaution should be taken to protect equipment from the cold. If your process equipment is not contained within a heated shelter, then consider these measures to protect your investment and keep your system up and running.


By Burt Process Equipment

cold-weather-damage-ph-electrodes

Low temperatures can affect your system when they are not being run within their optimal temperature limits. Pumps with mechanical seals or air-operated pumps are susceptible to damage when run in subzero conditions. Cold weather conditions can lead to problems with freezing liquids, ice formation within pumps or piping systems, obstruction to flow, warping, expansion or bursting of plastic pipe and fittings, and possible corrosion of pump or valve components. 

Installing an appropriate heat source to raise the temperature of the fluid being pumped is a good first line of defense against the cold. This can be achieved by wrapping a heat blanket around the feed tank to maintain above freezing temperatures. Peabody Engineering offers a durable and flexible thermal insulation blanket that can help keep the heat in and prevent system liquids from freezing.

heating-blanket-with-dial-square-blue-tank-438x600
heating-blanket-standard-blue-tank-353x600

Eliminating residual water from your piping system will help prevent ice buildup, bursting pipes, or cracked pump casings. Installing a dump valve at the lowest point of the piping system will make it easier to drain lines. Exhausting cold air from the lines will help avoid stalling or ice buildup once the pump is back up and running. When starting up in the cold you should always ensure your pump is brought up to temperature gradually to avoid thermal shock. 

To protect air compressors, be sure to winterize them two months before temperatures are expected to drop below freezing. Additionally, be sure to assess the condition of insulation and inspect airlines thoroughly for any damage. 

Throughout the winter months, be sure to visually inspect pH, ORP, and Chlorine electrodes before using them. Look for shattered or cracked glass, reference junction protrusion, or cracked sensor body. If you see any of these, the sensor is no longer fit for use. Electrodes must be stored at room temperature to prevent damage.

Throughout the winter months, be sure to visually inspect pH, ORP, and Chlorine electrodes before using them. Look for shattered or cracked glass, reference junction protrusion, or cracked sensor body. If you see any of these, the sensor is no longer fit for use. Electrodes must be stored at room temperature to prevent damage. 

With some pre-planning and diligence, your system can be protected from the cold weather. Doing so will avoid costly damage to your equipment and unwelcome system downtime. We hope these cold-weather tips have been helpful. Feel free to reach out to our knowledgeable technical staff with questions.

GF-Signet-pH-ORP-electrode
pipes-insulation