Industrial machinery works hard and, as such, requires continual maintenance to keep everything working effectively and efficiently. Large, heavy machinery such as that used in mining, farming, and heavy industry has to be held in tip-top condition to avoid costly downtime and to ensure continued safety. Here are some tips for maintaining large machinery:
Don’t neglect machinery operator training
A machine is only as good as the person or people controlling it. A top priority should always be the correct and safe use of industrial machinery. An inspection should be carried out as soon as a machine is procured, with operator training as quickly as possible. Training should also be an ongoing activity, as operators might change, skills become lazy or rusty over time, and improper use could result in machinery breakdown or create a dangerous working environment.
Don’t forget to lubricate
Machinery often requires lubricant to lessen friction around moving parts. Adding lubricants frequently in a regular maintenance schedule will help prolong your machine’s life. Make sure the lubricant used is the right one for the machinery. You can do this by checking what the manufacturer recommends.
Check for deterioration
Contributing factors to breakdowns in machinery include high temperatures, excessive friction, age, vibration, and shock. Over time, belts will warp, seals will crack, and bolts loosen, for example. A regular maintenance check will identify any signs of wear and tear as soon as possible, enabling you to quickly take care of necessary replacements. When you need a new Hydraulic Power Pack, contact a site like https://www.hydraproducts.co.uk/
Keep the area clean
The environment surrounding machinery and the machines themselves should be kept clean and clutter-free. Seals and filters help reduce contamination, so a regular inspection is essential. Any machinery not currently used should be stored away from the elements and occasionally run, even if not required.
Keep a maintenance schedule and records
Parts of machinery must be regularly inspected, including electrical systems, fluids, filters, and belts. Keeping a structured schedule for checking these things is a great way to practice preventative maintenance. Maintaining records is another helpful way of looking up when a piece of equipment was last checked, repaired, or replaced. Any moving parts must also be included and checked for lubricant levels, vibration, and wear and tear signs. Parts exposed to friction, such as gaskets, bearings, and seals, must be regularly inspected and replaced if worn out. Filters also need frequent replacement.