Heavy machinery is the backbone of many industrial operations such as mining, manufacturing, processing, agriculture, logistics, etc. Machines such as cranes, bulldozers, and forklifts simplify work by reducing the workforce needed and making employees more productive.

Unfortunately, these machines are prone to wear and tear internally and externally. Due to their complexity, their repair or replacement comes at a higher price tag. Thankfully you can adopt some practices to keep your heavy machinery functioning smoothly.

Preventative maintenance

The number one way to keep your heavy machinery operating efficiently is to implement preventative maintenance. Like your regular checkups with the doctor, routine inspection of your heavy machinery ensures standard performance.

Moreover, the Occupational Safety and Health Authority (OSHA) also demands that you have a preventative maintenance program for your heavy machinery to ensure a safe working environment. Otherwise, your company risks hefty fines or closure. You should contact a Kor Pak specialist to inspect your heavy machinery and ensure compliance.

Regular cleaning

The easiest way to ensure that your machinery runs smoothly is to make time for regular cleanings. Heavy machinery such as cranes is exposed to dirt during work and even moisture during the cold seasons. Debris can clog critical parts of your machinery, reducing its efficiency and functionality. Moisture can corrode the parts and weaken them due to rust leading to a costly replacement. Therefore you should have a schedule for cleaning your heavy machinery to ensure efficient functioning.

Stick to a regular lubrication schedule

Most heavy industrial machinery requires lubrication to function efficiently. Lubrication reduces friction on the parts, minimizing wear and tear and prolonging the machinery’s lifespan. Lubricants also keep the parts clean and free from soot build-up that can reduce the efficiency of the machinery. Therefore it is vital to maintain a regular lubrication schedule. Also, ensure you use the correct lubricant according to your manufacturer’s specifications.

Invest in reliable storage

Where you store the heavy machinery during non-working hours is also important. You must keep it away from the sun, heat, and moisture to prevent structural damage such as corrosion. Your machinery can incur wear and tear while in use and poor storage conditions. Therefore you should invest in a reliable and quality storage space to protect your machinery.

Do not overwork your machinery.

Overuse is harmful to your heavy machinery as it can damage the engine due to overheating. Therefore you should know your equipment’s limits and stick to them. Read your user manual to understand the machine’s specifications and limitations around its use and never exceed them. For instance, abiding by the weight limits can keep it functioning smoothly for many years. Also, minimize the machinery’s use in extreme weather conditions like heat, snow, ice, and rain to extend its lifespan.

The takeaway

Ensure your employees undergo training on the proper use of the machinery. While simple hands-on instruction may be enough for small machinery, heavy machinery requires special training and certification beforehand. Also, follow your user’s manual to ensure the proper use of the machinery.