Winter Anti-Freeze Guide | Protect Your Punching Machine Through the Cold Season

As winter temperatures drop and cold waves arrive more frequently, ensuring that your punching machine can operate safely and reliably through the cold season is essential. Derateck kindly reminds all users to prepare anti-freeze measures in advance—especially for the water-cooling system.

1. Why Is Anti-Freeze Protection Necessary?

 

During operation, the water-cooling system of a punching machine plays a critical role by dissipating heat and maintaining system stability. When temperatures fall below 0 °C, if no anti-freeze measures are taken, the cooling water may freeze and expand, leading to:

 

Blockage of water channels or bursting of pipelines, affecting cooling circulation;

 

Damage to internal components of the punch press main motor;

 

In severe cases, machine shutdown or even permanent equipment damage.

 

Therefore, anti-freeze protection is not only essential for equipment maintenance, but also a key step in ensuring production safety and continuity.

 

1. Recommended Anti-Freeze Measures for Different Regions

 

Anti-freeze solutions should be adapted to local temperature conditions:

 

Regions where long-term temperatures below 0 °C

It is recommended to fully fill the water chiller with industrial anti-freeze coolant, replacing the original circulating water to prevent freezing and pipe rupture. Please choose reputable brands to ensure reliable low-temperature protection and system compatibility.

 

Regions where temperatures are close to 0 °C

It is recommended to add 5–8 liters of anti-freeze coolant, approximately one-third of the total system capacity, and mix it with water to effectively prevent freezing. Although southern winters are generally milder, sudden cold spells can still cause freezing damage and should not be overlooked.

 

III. Anti-Freeze Coolant Selection & Usage Notes

 

Use anti-freeze coolant from reputable manufacturers; avoid automotive coolant or low-quality products.

 

Maintain a proper mixing ratio—too high a concentration may affect heat dissipation performance.

 

Regularly check anti-freeze effectiveness, especially during prolonged cold periods; a hydrometer can be used for testing.

 

Replacement cycle: It is recommended to replace the coolant once a year to maintain corrosion resistance and anti-freeze performance.

 

1. Protection Recommendations During Long-Term Shutdown

 

If the machine will be shut down for an extended period in winter, completely drain all circulating water from the water-cooling system to prevent residual water from freezing and damaging the system. Compressed air can be used to blow dry the pipelines and ensure no liquid remains.