Heavy equipment doesn’t come cheap, whether you buy or rent them. These machines are expensive and expected to last for a long time before there’s a need for replacement. Proper care of these machines ensures that they work at maximal capacity while maintaining the desired lifespan. Problems with submaximal equipment will increase work time, reduce productivity, and reduce the output of the machines.
This is an essential guide to maintaining heavy equipment machine life at a maximal level.
1. Buy Good quality Equipment
Nothing beats quality equipment. Quality equipment, by design, is made for maximal productivity and is less likely to break down. There is also a warranty that comes with quality machines. Quality equipment may be more expensive than the rest, but their productivity matches their monetary value. If you cannot afford to outrightly buy quality machines, renting them at a much more reduced rate is advisable.
2. Use the right equipment for the job.
Equipment is built for specific purposes. Using a machine for the wrong purposes reduces productivity, increases work, and reduces machine life. A machine can be too small, too big, or outrightly unsuitable for the task. A machine too small takes a longer time to complete the job. On the other hand, a machine that is too big for the task complicates the job and costs more money and resources to complete the task. Unsuitable equipment also reduces the quality of the output of the job. Machines may be improvised to do more than they are originally manufactured for. However, this improvisation should be minimal, and appropriate machines should be purchased or rented as soon as possible.
3. Train workers
To get maximal use of your heavy equipment, workers and handlers should be adequately trained. Training of workers should include proper handling of the machines, care and maintenance, appropriate clothing while using the machine, and safety.
4. Store the machines properly
Instructions on storage usually come with the machine. Most machines are to be stored in cool and dry places. Parts of the machines that are not in use should be removed, clean, and stored. Plastic bags can be used to cover machines, not in use. All electrical equipment should be disconnected from the electricity source when not in use.
5. Regular maintenance
Regular maintenance of machines increases machine life. Wear and tear occur in machines used constantly. Minor wear and tear can add up to halt the operation of a machine. Minor and seemingly insignificant problems occurring during use should be fixed as soon as they are noticed. Parts of heavy equipment should be constantly checked for rust and other wear. Damaged parts should be quickly replaced by Western Australian mining services to maintain the operation of machines. Workers and handlers of these equipment can be trained to carry out routine maintenance. However, a professional is needed for repairs and a thorough maintenance process. Properly maintained machines give maximal productivity and increase the lifespan of the equipment and you can start by;
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Cleaning the machines regularly.
Dirt and unwanted particles reduce the maximum functioning of machines or outrightly damage machines. Machines should be cleaned of dust particles, mud, and unwanted particles. Thorough and regular cleaning should be carried out using suitable products and techniques.
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Lubricating the moving parts
Heavy machines have different moving parts. These moving parts cause excessive friction on the other surfaces and require constant lubrication. Lubrication reduces the stress of the machine, improves machine life, increases performance, and increases longevity. Lubricate heavy equipment regularly using quality and suitable lubricants. Lubrication should be in an adequate quantity that will lubricate the machine without causing excessive accumulation of grease.
6. Get machine insurance
Unforeseen circumstances, like fire, theft, flooding, can occur and damage heavy equipment. Insurance protects against these unexpected issues. Insurance saves money for the cost of brand-new machines in the case of these circumstances. It is better to have your equipment insured and never need the insurance than need the insurance and not to have it.
7. Monitor efficiency of machines
The way to find problems with heavy equipment before they occur is to monitor the performance of these machines. The performance should be logged against the amount of time spent and the quality of products. Start tracking the efficiency of machines from the first day of use. If the performance falls below normal, inspect the machine for damage. It is also important to log the maintenance and repair schedule for each machine. Monthly, quarterly, and yearly reviews of logs should be done to monitor the efficiency of the equipment.
When you take great care of your machines, they will serve you for longer periods. The tips shared in this guide will help you take better care of your machines.
