Cold-Weather Hydraulic Performance: Why Hydraulic Connections Fail & How to Prevent It

Monday, January 19, 2026

Cold-Weather Hydraulic Performance: Why Hydraulic Connections Fail & How to Prevent It

Hydraulic systems are the backbone of access equipment. But when temperatures drop, even the most reliable hydraulic connections can fail. Cold weather changes fluid viscosity, affects material strength, and makes seals less flexible. These factors can lead to leaks, downtime, and higher maintenance costs. 

For OEMs, engineers, and procurement teams, knowing why connections fail and how to prevent it is key to keeping operations running smoothly.

Why Cold Weather Challenges Hydraulic Connections

Low temperatures can create unique challenges for hydraulic systems:

• Thicker hydraulic fluid: Cold fluid increases system pressure, putting extra stress on connections.

• Metal contraction: Components shrink, changing tolerances and creating potential leak paths.

• Reduced seal flexibility: O-rings and other seals become less pliable, making it harder to maintain a secure fit.

Common failure points include:

• Threaded connections that can loosen as materials contract.

• Seals of improper compounds that harden and fail to seal properly.

• Hydraulic components that are not designed for extreme temperatures.

These issues can result in leaks and reduced system performance, especially for fleets operating in northern climates or during winter projects.

How Air-Way Prevents Cold-Weather Failures

At Air-Way, we engineer hydraulic fittings to perform reliably even in the harshest conditions. Here is how we help you reduce risk:

• Material Selection: Metals and alloys are chosen for strength and stability at low temperatures.

• Precision Tolerances: Every fitting is manufactured to exact specifications, ensuring seals remain secure as materials contract.

• Seal Optimization: O-ring compounds and sealing systems are selected and designed to stay flexible across temperature extremes.

• Custom Solutions: For specialized access equipment, we modify standard fittings or design custom solutions that perform reliably in cold weather.

Real-World Impact

Imagine a fleet of aerial lifts working in sub-zero temperatures. Without cold-rated fittings, downtime due to leaks or pressure loss is a very real risk.

Air-Way fittings designed for low temperatures help operators maintain uptime, reduce maintenance, and protect worker safety, saving time and costs while lowering operational risk.

Why This Matters for Your Business

Downtime is expensive. One failing component can stop production, delay projects, or increase warranty claims. 

Partnering with a supplier who understands these challenges and provides engineered solutions for extreme conditions reduces uncertainty and gives your team confidence that operations will run smoothly.

Built for Reliability, Even in Extreme Conditions

Air-Way combines global manufacturing reach with U.S.-based engineering oversight to deliver fittings that perform consistently in any climate. Whether you are specifying standard parts or custom solutions, every connection meets the same high standards for reliability and precision.

Let’s Evaluate Your Cold-Weather Needs Together

Do not let low temperatures compromise your hydraulic systems. Contact our engineers to discuss fittings, materials, and designs that keep your access equipment running safely and efficiently.

If you’re looking for a hydraulic partner committed to precision, responsiveness, and long-term reliability, our team is here to help. Let’s Talk.