Short answer
For a hydraulic hose to be used at low temperature, not only the storage temperature but also cold bending and the operating condition must be verified. The behavior of the hose, seals and fluid are assessed together. Forcing a hose that has stiffened in the cold into place is not a correct solution.
Source: S017
Technical explanation
A product's operable temperature range and the temperature it is exposed to in storage or in a specific test are not the same information. Minimum bending conditions and movement in the application are important for cold service. Changing properties of the fluid can also affect system behavior; therefore start-up is examined separately from steady operation. General and uncontrolled methods should not be recommended for interventions such as on-site heating. The manufacturer's and the machine's procedures must be the basis.
Source: S017
Topic-specific checkpoints
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Storage | The manufacturer's storage condition; separate from operating permission. |
| Installation | Cold bending and assembly limitations. |
| Start-up | Initial temperature, fluid and state of movement. |
| Continuous service | Normal conditions and cycling after warming up. |
Source: S017
How is it assessed in practice?
In a cold-climate request, describe the expected lowest ambient temperature, the initial temperature of the fluid and the first movements of the machine. A hose stored outdoors and assembled in a warm workshop and a hose removed and installed at a cold site are different scenarios. In the sample acceptance record, check the product's installation and movement limits; not being damaged in the storage box should not count as evidence for dynamic operation. Record damage findings during a safe shutdown and state the temperature change based on data, not estimation.
Original editorial recommendation; not a clause of a standard.
Frequently asked questions
If a hose is flexible at room temperature, will it work at the same radius in the cold?
This assumption should not be made. The cold service and movement conditions of the relevant product must be verified; a hand check at room temperature does not replace this.
Source: S017
Source coverage
-
S017
Parker Safety Guide, Publication 4400-B.1 Parker Hannifin · accessed 2026-10-20 PDF page 4; 6.0 Hose Storage and 6.1-6.1.4 Age Control | PDF page 2; 2.4 Temperature | PDF page 3; 2.17 Radiant HeatPDF page 3; 3.7 Minimum Bend Radius, 3.8 Twist Angle and Orientation and 3.13 Routing | PDF page 2; 2.8 Routing, 2.10 Mechanical Loads and 2.11 Physical Damage | PDF page 2; 2.4 Temperature | PDF page 3; 2.17 Radiant HeatPDF page 4; 5.1 Maintenance Programme, 5.2 Visual Inspection, 5.3 Other Inspection and 5.6 Hose Inspection and Failure | PDF page 2; 2.5 Fluid CompatibilityPDF page 2; 2.4 Temperature | PDF page 3; 2.17 Radiant Heat