Machinery—just like plasma cutting systems, shears, water jets, and other metal fabrication equipment—requires constant maintenance to keep it in good working shape. Poorly maintained machinery runs inefficiently. Breakdowns and downtime are expensive, and safety is always a consideration. Keeping your machinery running well is imperative to a smooth-running operation. Learn how to get the most out of your aging machinery in this guide to preventing machine breakdown due to longevity and maintenance issues.
Stay on Top of Training for Machinery Operators
Whether in the shop or in the field machinery often has multiple operators. Ongoing inspections should always be on the list of ongoing assessments. Upon purchase, machinery should be inspected. Training usually occurs at this time, but training needs to be kept up. Employees come and go. Also, operator manuals can be revised for specific work situations, perhaps made shorter and more common than technical manuals. A short manual can be provided to each operator for easy reference. Identify best practices, which can be transferred to other facilities and locations.
Add and Test Lubricants Frequently
Reducing friction around any moving part is vital. A schedule for good lubrication maintenance extends the life of your machinery and its components. Lubrication is one of the most important maintenance checks and the first one to be executed. Be sure to use the right lubricant. There could be specific kinds of lubrication for each part. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Keep Machinery Clean and Maintain a Clean Environment
There are many seals and gaskets in place on machinery, and these pieces need to be kept clean and free of contamination. Seals should be inspected with regularity to ensure quality working conditions. Breathers should be kept clean to avoid airborne contaminants. Keeping the workplace free of pollutants in a semi-controlled environment will help reduce the chances of your machine becoming unnecessarily dirty.
Check for Signs of Wear
Vibration, shock, high temperatures, friction, and age contribute to the breakdown of parts in machinery. Vibration can come from gears and belts that are out of alignment. The shock comes from poor operator technique and accidents. You can also experience high temperatures from extended use, friction, inadequate lubrication, or worn parts. And over time, belts will warp. Seals will dry and crack. Bolts will loosen and stretch out of shape. Be sure to quickly perform maintenance on any aged parts that are beyond repair.
Keeping your machinery in top condition is a process that starts from the moment you take possession. The idea is not to reverse aging but rather to slow it down throughout the life of the machine. This is done through constant routine maintenance and training of staff. We hope this guide for how to get the most out of your aging machinery helps you extend the life of your machinery needs. For more advice, contact the customer service team at Mac-Tech.