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Why preheating is critical for filtration in cold conditions
Filtration of hydraulic oil, lubricating oil, and other technical fluids in cold climates places different demands on filtration systems compared to operation at normal working temperatures. As temperature decreases, oil viscosity increases, which directly affects flow rate and filtration efficiency. Without appropriate measures, this can result in inefficient filtration, increased stress on components, and reduced operational reliability in hydraulic systems.
Preheating ensures correct filtration and improved performance
By preheating the fluid before it passes through the filter elements, the system operates under suitable conditions for effective filtration. This is particularly important for offline filtration and maintenance filtration using filter carts, where the oil is treated outside normal system operation.
Maintaining the correct temperature allows the filtration process to function as intended, providing more stable flow and optimal utilization of the filter media.
Key benefits of preheating prior to filtration
- Stable viscosity The oil is brought into a temperature range suitable for filtration and separation.
- Correct flow rate Pumps and filters operate within specified parameters, ensuring predictable capacity and efficiency.
- Improved particle removal The filter media performs optimally when the oil has proper flow characteristics.
- Efficient water separation Free and emulsified water is more easily removed when the oil is properly conditioned.
- Reduced stress on components Lower pressure drop and smoother operation extend the service life of both filters and pumps.
In practice, filtration without preheating may become very slow, inefficient, or need to be interrupted to avoid unnecessary strain on the equipment.
Short version
- Cold temperatures increase oil viscosity and reduce flow and filtration efficiency without preheating
- Preheating ensures correct operating temperature and effective removal of particles and water
- Filter carts with integrated heaters provide safe and predictable oil maintenance in cold environments
Did you know?
Cold conditions often reveal the presence of water in oil.
As temperatures drop, moisture within the system becomes more noticeable. Preventive filtration makes it possible to remove water before it causes damage to equipment and system components.
Preheating and oil service life
Filtration at the correct temperature ensures effective removal of particles and water, reduces wear, and extends oil service life. For operations with large machine fleets, this delivers clear benefits in terms of reliability, cost control, and sustainability.
Filter cart with preheating is an effective field solution
Mobile filter carts with integrated heating elements are designed for maintenance filtration under demanding conditions and allow oil to be filtered directly from tanks, systems, or drums regardless of ambient temperature or season. The solutions are available in different sizes and capacities and can be adapted to oil volume, required filtration rate, and available power supply, providing flexible use both in workshops and in the field.
Flexible filtration solutions and rental options
For operations requiring temporary filtration, seasonal maintenance, or wishing to evaluate a solution prior to investment, filter carts with preheating are also available for rental. This provides a practical and cost effective way to implement professional filtration in cold climates.
Typical applications for filter carts with preheating
Filter carts with preheating are particularly well suited for:
- Winter operation on construction sites and machine fleets where low temperatures affect oil viscosity
- Marine and offshore applications where stable operation and oil quality are critical
- Outdoor installations and unheated workshops where filtration must be performed at low ambient temperatures
- Commissioning and start up of new or refurbished systems prior to normal operation
- Preventive oil maintenance as part of a planned maintenance strategy
Adapting the filtration solution to temperature conditions
Not all filtration tasks can be handled with standard equipment. In cold environments, filtration solutions should always be evaluated with regard to:
- Oil type and viscosity grade
- Ambient temperature
- Required filtration level
- Need for water removal
- Mobility and available power supply
Filter carts with preheating are therefore a key tool for professional oil maintenance in Nordic and other cold climate conditions.