Why Regular Maintenance Is Crucial For Conveyor System Longevity

In the ever-competitive business world, companies must improve productivity to meet the demands of customers. That said, the smooth running of the conveyor system is vital in competing with rival companies in various industries, from construction to logistics. It is a load transportation network that involves moving items from one end to another on a flat surface powered by two or more pulleys underneath. Therefore, the conveyor system is a crucial aspect of daily operations, and the importance of regular maintenance can not be understated. If properly maintained, it can stay in peak condition for years. It can help you save on operational costs and keep you from violating labor legislation. In this article, you will learn five crucial reasons why regular maintenance is expedient in preserving the conveyor system.

1. Increased Lifespan

Setting up a conveyor system is not a walk in the park, as these tools are not cheap to acquire and install. That’s enough reason to want it to last for as long as possible. The lifespan of a conveyor system varies depending on various factors. However, proper maintenance can make it run smoothly for an extended period.

Furthermore, the conveyor belt is susceptible to various impediments. Scheduled maintenance can help you discover potential threats to its functionality. For instance, there could be a blockage in the pulley system resisting the movement of the belt.

Also, if the conveyor belt is not properly stationed along the pulleys, it can cause wear and tear. Simple corrective measures like realignment or repositioning of the belt may be enough to reduce wear and keep it in peak condition.

2. Avoid Occupational Hazard

Faulty or poorly maintained conveyor systems can be dangerous to the safety of operators and those working close to them. Safety measures are usually made to ensure a hazard-free work environment, especially for conveyor system operators.

A conveyor system comes with safety technology to shut down the system to avoid hazards. They include the trip cords along the belt that can be triggered to stop the machine from running if necessary. There are also warning alarm sounds to alert workers of imminent danger if it arises.

Other safety systems include the sway, belt rip, and speed switches to ensure the proper alignment, running speed, and compactness of the belt. The conveyor belt will stop working if the belt fails to function as intended when these switches are triggered.

Regular maintenance involves testing these safety switches before using the conveyor belt. That way, you can be sure the conveyor infrastructure is safe to operate.

3. Comply with Safety Regulations

Conveyor systems are some of the most crucial tools in the industrial setting. Compared to other industries, conveyors are more robust and complex in manufacturing processes. Thus, more measures are put in place to ensure their safe use and prevent dangerous malfunctions. Every country has a designated agency for overseeing safety practices involving these systems.

For instance, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulates the safe use of conveyor systems in the United States. OSHA ensures that employers create a safe workplace for all employees. OSHA not only sets safety regulations but also enforces them. Its agents inspect workplaces and facilities for compliance.

They can also penalize organizations that fall short of these standards with fines. Proper maintenance can help companies cultivate a wholesome safety culture that keeps them in compliance with safety regulations.

4. Prevent Permanent Damage

Machines tend to give “warning signs” before they eventually break down. Sometimes, these signs are subtle, and you may not notice them until it’s too late. Proper maintenance can help detect these issues early to prevent permanent damage to the conveyor system.

One of the core components of conveyor maintenance is cleaning the conveyor belt and removing obstructions to the pulleys or rollers. For instance, while conveyor belts transport heavy boulders during construction, the debris can sometimes be stuck in the conveyor system.

All in all, maintenance and cleaning help you detect them before they cause permanent damage that could result in an overhaul of the system.

5. Order Fulfillment

Conveyor systems have become an essential part of the service industry, from delivery to transportation. A glitch in the conveyor system may significantly affect the latter stages of the supply chain. In a competitive sector, unfulfilled orders can cause customers to lose trust in a company’s ability to deliver on time.

A survey revealed that over 10% of shoppers will likely blame the delivery company for order delays. These issues can be easily detected or avoided with proper maintenance. Besides avoiding setbacks, maintenance can help you handle crises expertly. For example, if you notice an obstruction to the pulley system, you may anticipate a potential delay in processing and delivery times. With this information, you can notify customers beforehand of a possible delay.

The average customer pauses their plans in anticipation of a delivery. Your transparency allows them to focus on other core aspects of their day.

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