Machine breakdowns happen at all jobsites. Sometimes they are unavoidable, but they can often be prevented. How do you know what breakdowns are preventable, and how do you keep your equipment up, running, and ready to go? Perry Brothers Equipment has some information to help you identify and solve potential problems before they ever arise.
Types of Problems and How to Prevent Them
Maintenance
Lack of maintenance is the most common cause of preventable machine failures. It is easy to forget routine maintenance in favor of things that seem more important. However, you should never skip or push back maintenance. Under-maintenance can lead to machine breakdowns, while over-maintenance can lead to wasting time and money.
Routine maintenance can identify problems early. When you identify problems early, you can get them fixed before your machinery ever breaks down. This saves you money, keeping you from paying for much more expensive repairs, as well as avoiding down time. In your owner's manual, there will be usage intervals/time windows for maintenance suggested. Keeping a schedule and a maintenance log could be helpful.
Corrosion
Corrosion is a process that breaks down metals and other materials. Rust, dirt, moisture, and salt can deteriorate the metal on your equipment, causing rust or holes. This can cause breakdowns or equipment failures.
Any time you use your machine in muddy or salty environments, clean your machine. Cleaning your machine is the easiest way of protecting it from corrosion. For extra protection, you can apply anti-corrosion coatings. These coatings work as a barrier between the metal of your machine and the surrounding elements. This prevents moisture, mud, etc. from breaking down and rusting the metal. You should hold routine inspections to check for wear. If you find corrosion, you can fix the wear, remove rust, and reapply any protective coatings used. This will keep the corrosion from spreading.
Improper Use / Operator Error
Improper operation is often a cause of preventable breakdowns and accidents. When staff lack the proper education, they use equipment incorrectly or try to use it beyond its limits. This can cause too much strain on the machine, leading to major problems.
Proper training is so important. You should ensure all staff who are to use the machine receive full education on its capabilities and limits. Keeping a schedule where several trained staff are always on site is best, so there will be coverage for any absences that arise.
Fatigue
Metal fatigue is when repeated stress from everyday use causes strain on the machine. This often leads to small cracks or fractures. The cracks weaken the metal until it reaches its breaking point, leading to major breakdowns and system failures.
You can reduce metal fatigue by maintaining the proper lubrication of the machine. Proper lubrication ensures that moving pieces move when and where they should, lightening the strain on the solid parts. Less strain means fewer cracks, leading to fewer breakdowns.
Environmental Factors
Seasons and climate also affect equipment and how it runs. Summer and winter months may require the use of different oils for your machines. In cases of extreme cold or heat, specific formulas may be required. The owner's manual will explain the specific requirements of your machine. Read, understand, and follow what the manual says to get the best out of your machine.
Perry Brothers Equipment Company is here for you and all your needs. We can complete routine maintenance, order parts and supplies you need, and fix your machines when you experience a breakdown or mechanical failure. We offer services for all kinds of equipment, so we can keep your machines up and running.