NDSU Extension Farm and Ranch Safety Coordinator Angie Johnson says when temperatures drop below zero, challenges can arise from machinery, especially hydraulic hoses. “This time of year, during our peak cold season, there’s challenges with our farm equipment that may not have enough time to warm up properly.” When conditions become too cold, hydraulic hoses can become stiff and brittle and lose their ability to bend causing cracks to form. If the hydraulic oil doesn’t warm up, it won’t flow as well and it can build up, leading to excess pressure put on weak points of the hose. Johnson recommends farmers allow their machinery to warm up properly and routinely check or oil leaks or worn hoses.
News Categories
Latest RRFN Podcasts
Subscribe to RRFN
Get a weekly digest from RRFN to stay up-to-date on all the latest news in agriculture.