Time never stands still, and neither should conveyor belts. Breakdowns can cause conveyor belts to come to a standstill, and that lost time can have a devastating impact on both productivity and profit. Fortunately however, regular preventative maintenance and conveyor belt repairs can help to keep things running smoothly.
What does food and beverage manufacturing have in common with metal fabrication and welding companies? All of these industries ? and many more ? rely on convey belts of all kinds in order to meet and exceed their productivity goals. The inconvenience of a breakdown, especially one that requires extensive conveyor belt repair, can be extremely costly in a number of ways.
Routine maintenance and conveyor belt repairs help to greatly reduce the risk of a breakdown, and can help to keep operating costs at a minimum. Check out these simple hacks that work for all conveyor belt repairs, both large and small and regardless of type:
Make safety is a priority
Although safety isn’t often regarded as an aspect of product innovation, it plays a vital role in well conveyor belt repairs are executed. Without the proper experience, training, and tools, attempting to perform conveyor belt repairs without the help of a licensed professional can be very dangerous. In fact, attempting to do so in an effort to save money is likely to cost more in the end. Regular safety training, including “refresher” courses on safe operating procedures for employees, are a must for machines and systems that use conveyor belts. When used properly, conveyor belts are less likely to tear, break, and malfunction.
Use a belt cutter for clean cuts
When it comes to machinery repair of any kind, using the right tools is of the utmost importance. Failure to do is can result in shoddy, ineffective, and haphazard repairs that will only end up costing more in the end and create unsafe and even unproductive work environment. It’s much better to get the job done right the first time by calling a professional who has the right tools and the experience to use them properly.
Conveyor belt repairs often require straight, square, and clean cuts. Only a belt cutter can and should be used for this critical task. Using a knife, scissors, or any other kind of cutting tool will result in imprecision and error. This only increases the likelihood for yet another breakdown or malfunction. Furthermore, it’s important to only use a belt cutter specifically designed to cut the belt in need of repair.
Only use tools of the trade
Compact and completely portable belt skivers are often used by licensed and trained repair technicians to remove the belt’s top cover in preparation for fasteners. Similarly, air-operated rivet drivers are portable and designed for single-hand use. These tools, and others like them, allow technicians to carry out conveyor belt repairs faster and more efficiently than ever. This allows production to continue and allows repairs to be safely, quickly, and more thoroughly.
Belt manufacturers typically offer a variety of safety, training, and technology programs in an effort to promote safety in the workplace and increase productivity. Taking advantage of these offerings can help to reduce the likelihood of conveyor belt repairs caused by damage or improper use. For more information on conveyor belt repairs and safety protocols, contact a belt manufacturer to learn more.