Protect Your Materials!

Cold Weather Care: Protecting Silicones, Resins, and Polyurethane Foams from Low Temperatures

As winter sets in, it's essential to take precautions to safeguard your materials from the adverse effects of low temperatures. Silicones, resins, and polyurethane foams are commonly used in various industries, but their performance can be compromised in cold weather. In this blog post, we'll explore practical tips and techniques to ensure the integrity of these materials in chilly conditions.

Storage Considerations:

• Store materials in a climate-controlled environment to prevent exposure to extreme temperatures.
• Maintain a consistent temperature range for storage, ideally above the recommended minimum temperature for each material.
• Keep above floor level as this tends to be much lower.

Prevent Freezing:

• Silicones, resins, and foams can be susceptible to freezing. Ensure that the materials are kept above their respective freezing points.
• If freezing is a concern, consider using heated storage solutions or insulated containers.

Warm-Up Procedures:

• Before using the materials, allow them to reach the recommended temperature gradually. Sudden temperature changes can impact their performance.
• Implement a warm-up procedure, especially for larger quantities of materials, by placing them in a controlled warming environment or slowly and gently agitating the material. 

Use of Thermal Barriers:

• Employ thermal barriers, such as insulated covers or blankets, to protect materials during transportation or outdoor storage.
• Ensure that the thermal barriers are appropriately designed to provide insulation without causing condensation issues.

Monitoring and Control:

• Implement temperature monitoring systems to track the storage conditions of materials.
• Install heating systems or use temperature-regulated storage facilities to maintain optimal conditions.

Transportation Considerations:

• If materials need to be transported in cold weather, use insulated containers or trucks with temperature control capabilities.
• Plan transportation routes that minimise exposure to extreme cold temperatures.

Consult Material Data Sheets:

• Refer to the material data sheets provided by manufacturers for specific recommendations on handling and storage in cold conditions.
• Follow any guidelines or precautions outlined in the data sheets.

Winter-Ready Workspaces:

• If working in an open or outdoor environment, consider setting up temporary shelters or heated workspaces to protect materials during application or curing.

Testing and Quality Control:

• Perform tests on a small scale before large-scale production or application to ensure that the materials maintain their desired properties in cold weather.
• Implement quality control measures to identify any issues early on.

By taking proactive steps to protect your materials from low temperatures, you can ensure that these materials maintain their reliability and performance in winter conditions. Implementing proper storage, transportation, and application practices will help safeguard your investment and maintain the quality of your products.

Please get in touch for any product, process or storage enquiries regarding the above topic. 

info@mouldlife.co.uk / 01638 750 679  / live chat