Effects of low temperature environment on the performance of horizontal toggle clamps and countermeasures

1. Performance changes of metal materials in low temperature environment
In low temperature environment, the physical and chemical properties of metal materials will undergo a series of changes. Among them, the most significant is the increase in strength and hardness, and the decrease in toughness. This phenomenon is mainly due to the fact that the atomic arrangement inside the metal becomes more compact at low temperature, resulting in the enhancement of the interaction force between molecules, thereby increasing the strength and hardness of the material. However, this change also brings a problem that cannot be ignored, that is, the reduction of material toughness. Toughness is the ability of a material to resist plastic deformation and fracture. Reduced toughness means that the material is more likely to undergo brittle fracture when subjected to external forces.

For horizontal toggle clamps, their clamping parts are usually made of high-strength metal materials to ensure sufficient clamping force and stability. In low temperature environments, these parts may become harder and the clamping force is correspondingly enhanced. However, at the same time, the flexibility of the articulated part may be seriously affected, resulting in difficulty in operation, or even failure to successfully complete the clamping action. This contradiction is particularly prominent under extreme low temperature conditions and becomes a key factor restricting the performance of horizontal toggle clamps.

2. Effect of low temperature on lubricating grease
In addition to the impact on the metal material itself, the low temperature environment will also have a significant impact on the lubricating grease inside the horizontal toggle clamp. Lubricating grease plays an important role in reducing friction, reducing wear and ensuring smooth operation in the toggle clamp. However, under low temperature conditions, the viscosity of the lubricating grease will increase significantly, and may even solidify, resulting in a significant reduction in the lubrication effect. This will not only increase the friction and wear of the hinged part, but also affect the operational flexibility and accuracy of the toggle clamp.

3. Damage to the internal structure caused by freezing of water
In extremely low temperatures, if there is water inside the horizontal toggle clamp, the water may freeze and expand. Since the expansion coefficient of ice is much greater than that of metal materials, the volume expansion caused by freezing will cause huge pressure on the internal structure of the toggle clamp. This pressure may cause structural deformation, cracks or even fractures, seriously affecting the reliability and service life of the toggle clamp.

IV. Countermeasures
In view of the impact of low temperature environment on the performance of horizontal articulated clamps, we can adopt the following countermeasures:
Choose low temperature adaptable materials: Select metal materials with excellent low temperature toughness to make clamping parts and articulated parts to improve the flexibility and reliability of articulated clamps in low temperature environments.
Use low temperature lubricating grease: Select lubricating grease suitable for low temperature environments to ensure good lubrication effect under low temperature conditions.
Strengthen insulation measures: Insulate the horizontal articulated clamp to reduce the impact of ambient temperature on the inside of the articulated clamp.
Regular inspection and maintenance: Regularly inspect and maintain the horizontal articulated clamp to promptly discover and deal with potential problems to ensure its normal operation in low temperature environments.
Drying treatment: Before using in extreme low temperature environments, dry the horizontal articulated clamp to ensure that there is no residual moisture inside to avoid ice damage to the structure.