Yes, it is OK for vinyl to get cold. Vinyl records are made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which is a type of plastic. PVC is a thermoplastic, which means that it can become brittle when it is cold. However, PVC is also very durable, and it can withstand a wide range of temperatures.
The brittleness temperature of PVC varies depending on the specific formulation of the material, but it is typically around 15 degrees Fahrenheit (-9 degrees Celsius). If a vinyl record is exposed to temperatures below its brittleness temperature, it will become more brittle and more susceptible to damage.
However, it is important to note that the brittleness temperature is not the same as the melting point. The melting point of PVC is around 140 degrees Fahrenheit (60 degrees Celsius). So, a vinyl record can be exposed to temperatures below its brittleness temperature without melting.
Even though vinyl records can be exposed to cold temperatures without melting, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Handle vinyl records carefully when they are cold. Vinyl records are more brittle when they are cold, so they are more susceptible to damage if they are dropped or bent.
- Allow vinyl records to warm up before playing them. If you play a vinyl record that is cold, the stylus on your record player may damage the grooves in the record. It is best to allow the record to warm up to room temperature before playing it.
- Store vinyl records in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing vinyl records in direct sunlight or in humid environments.
Overall, it is OK for vinyl to get cold. Vinyl records are very durable and can withstand a wide range of temperatures. However, it is important to handle vinyl records carefully when they are cold and to allow them to warm up before playing them.
Here are some additional tips for handling and storing vinyl records in cold temperatures:
- If you are shipping vinyl records in cold weather, be sure to package them carefully. Use bubble wrap or other packing material to protect the records from damage.
- If you are storing vinyl records in a cold environment, be sure to place them in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing vinyl records in a damp or humid environment, as this can cause mold and mildew to grow.
- If you are playing vinyl records in a cold environment, be sure to warm them up before playing them. You can warm up the records by placing them in a warm room or by using a record warmer.
By following these tips, you can help to keep your vinyl records in good condition, even in cold temperatures.
