THE INS & OUTS OF HEAVY MACHINERY MAINTENANCE

Large and complex machines require regular maintenance, and with gruelling round the clock schedules, it is essential to carry out certain tasks to ensure smooth operation. Parts wear out, filters need to be changed, and cleaning is part of the regime that keeps the workhorse in good shape. The mining industry, in particular, requires heavy duty machinery maintenance, as the dirt and dusty environment is a continuous enemy.

Let’s take a look at some of the important tasks that must be included in the maintenance schedule of heavy machinery.

EXTERIOR MAINTENANCE

Machinery will typically have an army of seals and gaskets to keep the exterior environment away from the precision machined parts that enabled the device to carry out its task. The exterior casing would be coated with a special paint that offered a much higher level of protection than a domestic application, but eventually, repainting would become necessary. There is an alternative, which is a 3-layer paint process, and this is able to withstand anything the elements can conjure up, and with abrasive blasting to prepare the surface, the machinery has a high degree of protection.

STEEL GRIT

This is an excellent media to clean a range of surfaces and is commonly used in abrasive blasting today. Other materials, such as soda, coconut shell, and other small particle mediums can be used across of range of materials.

PROTECTIVE COATINGS

Aside from the special painting process, there are protective coating solutions that are very cost effective, and at Direct Blast, we provide protective solutions across a range of industries that include:

• Mining
• Transport
• Offshore
• Tank lining
• Structural steel

Concrete and steel are ideal for protective coating, and with a range of materials, such as silicone, zinc, and polyurethanes, we can advise on the best solution, whatever the job.

PROTECTIVE COATING REPORTS

Most companies require protective coatings to precise specifications, which might include the blast profile, the coating thickness and adhesion testing. Our qualified inspectors are well versed in preparing all the necessary documentation, and can also accommodate other forms of protective coating reports, should the client require them.

TIGHT SCHEDULES

Industrial machinery is never idle for very long, and there are usually very short intervals when the maintenance can take place. This calls for tight schedules to be met and any painting or coating would be scheduled during one of these periods. The maintenance team would have a stock of spare parts that are constantly replenished and regular replacement of certain components in often mandatory, and usually is decided by the number of working hours.

COST EFFECTIVE SOLUTIONS

Regular maintenance and cleaning ensures long life, and heavy machinery doesn’t come cheap, it makes sense to do what you can to maximise its use. Suitable protective coating can add years to the life of a machine, so if you have some equipment that you would like to protect, contact us today and we will be more than happy to suggest the most cost-effective way to protect your heavy machinery.