Heavy machinery such as cranes, dozers, boom lifts, articulated trucks, etc., plays a critical role in simplifying heavy work. No matter the type of machinery you use in your worksite, it is a significant investment that makes preventative maintenance more important.
Any machinery failure, no matter the industry, can lead to downtimes, reduced productivity, and costly repairs, all of which can be financially draining for your company. Here are some tips to keep your heavy machinery operating smoothly.
Do not overwork your machines.
Regardless of the technology your heavy machinery uses, there is always a limit to how much work it can do at a given time. One of the ways to ensure your machinery runs smoothly is to know its limits and stick to them. The machine’s manual has specifications on what it can handle and what it cannot at a given time.
You should adhere to the required loads and working conditions to keep the machinery from breaking down. Also, take your time to find the right machinery with the suitable capacity to handle your job. Also, not overworking your heavy machinery extends its lifespan.
Maintain the engine
The engine is the life of the heavy machinery; therefore, maintaining it in good condition is of utmost importance. Always lubricate the parts and use the correct type of lubricant as stipulated in the user’s manual. Also, avoid using too much lubricant because it can also cause other problems.
You should also check the fuel quality and air filtration. Inspect the engine for any opening that could be letting in unfiltered air, which can be detrimental to the engine’s health. Engine maintenance is critical, so engaging experienced heavy machinery inspectors like Kor Pak is best.
Safely store the equipment.
Another tip for maintaining your heavy machinery is to store it in the right conditions to prevent more damage from weather extremities. It is worth it to invest in climate-controlled sheds or garages that provide shelter for your heavy machinery. Such storage can prevent your machinery from rusting due to moisture or damage from exposure to UV rays. Moreover, it is vital to keep the storage area clean and free of clutter to reduce the risks of accidents.
Train the machinery operators
Your employees are responsible for using the machinery, and they can make or break it depending on how careful they are. The best thing is to educate the machinery operators since they are the ones who will be using your heavy machinery.
Other than classroom training, hands-on and on-the-job training are valuable ways to keep your employees updated with the machinery operation. Your machinery operators should also stick to the manual specific instructions on the use, and it is an excellent practice to review the safety practices from time to time.
Preventative maintenance
Last but not least, preventative maintenance for your heavy machinery is inevitable, and it is a legal requirement to ensure the safety of your employees. A preventive maintenance program minimizes heavy machinery breakdown and repairs and keeps it working efficiently. In the end, regular maintenance of your machinery saves you more resources.