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Winter is coming: How to weatherproof your maintenance


Who hasn’t heard the phrase “Winter is coming”? While it usually signals drama in pop culture, in the industrial world it has a very real meaning: cold weather creates serious challenges for machines and maintenance teams alike.

No one enjoys working outdoors in sub-zero temperatures, biting winds, or on icy surfaces. But maintenance doesn’t wait for spring. That’s where simalube proves its true value: while people would rather stay indoors, the automatic lubricator keeps doing its job – reliably and in almost any weather.

Slippery surfaces and workplace safety: keep your feet on the ground

Many lubrication points are located in hard-to-reach areas or directly outdoors. In summer, access may simply be inconvenient; in winter, it becomes dangerous. Icy ladders, slippery walkways, and stiff fingers significantly increase the risk of accidents for maintenance personnel.

The solution is forward planning. Thanks to adjustable runtimes from 1 to 12 months, simalube can be installed during summer or autumn, when conditions are dry and safe.

  • The lubricator supplies the lubrication point continuously throughout the winter
  • Maintenance staff no longer need to climb icy ladders
  • Accident risk is reduced and workplace safety is significantly improved

Reliability in Sub-Zero Conditions

Let’s be honest: when it’s –10°C outside, no one is keen on manual lubrication rounds. It’s understandable that some hard-to-reach points might be “forgotten” in such conditions.

But those missed points can lead to bearing damage, unplanned downtime, and costly repairs.

simalube doesn’t feel the cold. It’s designed to operate in temperatures from –20°C to +55°C – meaning your lubrication continues automatically and accurately, even in harsh winter weather.

Did you know? simalube still functions even when completely frozen in a block of ice. The electrochemical gas generation inside the drive unit continues – no matter the conditions.

Protection from storms and physical damage

So, is simalube indestructible? Almost – but not entirely immune to physical impact. Winter doesn’t just bring cold, but also storms. Flying debris or falling ice can damage an unprotected lubricator.

simatec has developed dedicated accessories to ensure long-term durability, even in tough environments:

  • Metal protective cap – provides effective protection against impacts and mechanical stress
  • Polyethylene cap – adds a layer of defence against moisture and short-term extreme temperature swings
     
     

Find the simalube accessories here

What if it gets colder than –20°C?

In some regions or specific applications – such as cold storage warehouses – temperatures can drop below –20°C. But that doesn’t mean you have to give up automatic lubrication.

The solution: remote installation. With the simalube IMPULSE connect, the lubricator can be installed up to 4 metres away from the lubrication point. This allows you to place the simalube unit in a protected, warmer location while the lubricant is delivered directly to the cold zone via tubing.

In addition, the IMPULSE connect can be configured and monitored via the World of Maintenance app – even from a sheltered position.

To ensure reliable lubrication in extreme temperature zones (below –20°C or above +55°C), these three conditions must be met:

  1. The selected lubricant is rated for the required temperature
  2. The lubricant is compatible with simalube (no separation or breakdown)
  3. The simalube unit itself remains within its operating range of –20°C to +55°C (thanks to the remote installation)

Winter doesn’t have to be a risk for your equipment

With the right preparation and the use of simalube, you not only protect your machinery from wear caused by cold and moisture – you also protect your maintenance team from dangerous service tasks in harsh weather conditions.

Get your equipment ready for winter – we’re happy to advise you on how to optimise your lubrication strategy.

Contact us now