The landscape of the infra industry in India is consistently evolving. Driving this transformation are multiple factors. One such crucial factor is heavy-duty equipment. Additionally, its market is constantly flooded by machines catering to different construction-related tasks. For instance, excavators, backhoe loaders, transportation equipment, etc.
However, we should note a few points here. First, while these equipment come equipped with highly advanced features, these need maintenance too. Moreover, the machinery require periodic repair & testing so as to maintain their efficient operation & increase the longevity of the machine.
Having discussed the maintenance need, how recurring should it be? Also, what are some important points to note while conducting the maintenance & other testing?
If these are your queries, this blog is for you. This article will discuss the kinds of heavy-duty equipment maintenance you should conduct periodically.
Periodic Heavy-Duty Equipment Testing to Conduct
This section will inform you about some major heavy-duty equipment maintenance to conduct periodically.
- Inspect the Machine Regularly
To begin with, carrying out a periodic machine inspection is quite crucial. This, for instance, includes examining the areas of wear & tear, leaks or any other issue pertaining to safety & performance. Look for these signs and conduct further fixing processes subsequently. The inspection additionally involves examining the hydraulic hoses of the machine.
Moreover, you should check the tires & tracks, analyzing if there’s any crack in these. Besides, remember to check the filters and fluids, including oil, coolant, and hydraulic fluid. Furthermore, as a professional, please Inspect the engine & transmission. In fact, there could be a possibility of signs of wear, including rust or corrosion. Hence, do check for those as well.
- Change Fluids & Filters
Replacement of the old filters & fluid to the new ones, if damaged, is equally important to ensure an equipment’s longevity. But, more importantly, the periodic change of these parts ensures the machine’s smooth operation. Besides, it reduces the risk of breakdowns.
However, here’s something to be aware of. The recurrence of fluid & filter replacement varies from one machine to another. For instance, the fluid testing in a tower crane might vary from a jib crane.
In addition, it depends on the usage of the equipment & manufacturer’s guidelines. Therefore, the hydraulic fluid should generally be changed every 1,000 to 2,000 hours. On the other hand, change the engine oil every 250 hours or so.
- Moving Parts Lubrication
Lubricating heavy-duty equipment is a crucial part of the maintenance & repair process. This is because doing the same will prevent friction & wear on moving parts of the machine. On the other hand, not conducting the lubricating process could lead to equipment breakdown. Consequently, this could lead to costly repairs.
Furthermore, ensure that you are lubricating every moving part of the heavy-duty machine. Above all, always choose the suitable lubricant for every party whilst following the manufacturer’s instructions for the quantity.
- Cleaning the Heavy-Duty Equipment
First & foremost, please note that here cleaning the machine has to do more than just making it look good. To illustrate, it involves removing dust, debris, and other dirt from the engine. This is inevitable as the heavy-duty equipment nature of working in construction, mining, or plantation sites.
Clearing any dirt buildup could intervene in the machine’s performance. Consequently, it could overheat the machine. Moreover, it could lead to premature wear or breakdowns of the models.
Furthermore, always use a high-pressure washer or steam cleaner to remove dirt. Both for the exterior & interior components. However, steer clear of harsh or abrasive cleaners, as these could backfire & damage the paint or other surface.
- Inspect the Electrical System
This is yet another important maintenance step for heavy-duty equipment. In fact, the maintenance procedure would be incomplete without this [particular process. Rightly so, the prevalence of any electrical issue can lead to breakdown, malfunctions, or even safety hazards.
Hence, to prevent these unfortunate accidents, note a few things.
To begin with, do conduct a regular inspection of wiring, connectors, and switches for the signs of wear or damage. After that, test the battery and charging system to ensure they function correctly.
As a QA professional, you should be ardent enough to follow all the safety protocols whenever working with electrical systems. Some of the guidelines include disconnecting the battery & wearing appropriate protective gear.
- Inspect the Braking System Status
It goes without saying how important the brakes are from the safety point of view of equipment. Hence, its inspection should be conducted timely and checked properly. On the other hand, damaged or worn brakes could cause accidents or severe damage to the machine.
Hence, inspect the brakes for wear periodically and replace them if needed to avoid such unfortunate incidents. Additionally, test the brake pedal to ensure it functions correctly. Also, do adjust the brakes if required.
- Inspect the Tracks or Tires
While the inspection of brakes is important, the track & tires too are critical components requiring regular maintenance. Additionally, worn or damaged parts can adversely affect the stability, safety, and overall equipment performance.
Therefore, make sure to check for signs of wear or damage in the track & tires. This could include issues like cracks, cuts, bulges, or other forms of damage.
Moreover, check the pressure & adjust it if needed. Furthermore, rotate the components regularly. Doing the same can extend the lifespan of tires & tracks.
- Conduct Regular Testing and Calibration
As a QA testing professional of heavy-duty equipment, you should never skip this process. This is because carrying out routine testing & calibration sustains & increases the performance level of the machine.
This testing method includes inspecting the sensors of the machine. Moreover, do ensure that you test the gauges to ensure they’re working efficiently.
Timely Maintenance of Heavy-Duty Equipment- The Benefits
This section explains the benefits of conducting periodic testing for heavy-duty equipment. Hence, keep reading to learn more about its importance:
- Reduction in Downtime
Breakdowns or any other damage in machines can cost severely, adding up to the downtime. Consequently, it can increase the maintenance & repair costs for businesses. This further would bring down productivity & revenue of infra projects, be it mining or construction.
Therefore, conducting periodic testing of equipment becomes crucial. Following the measures, professionals would be able to prevent breakdowns. Moreover, they will be better equipped to identify and solve any potential issues beforehand. Overall, this process would avoid unplanned downtime.
2. Extended Equipment Lifespan
Periodic conduction of heavy-duty equipment can help businesses scale up their productivity & profitability. Let’s understand how. To illustrate, regular & proper testing of the machine increases longevity, allowing companies to get more use out of the equipment.
This includes changing oils & filters. In addition, following the right procedures can help prevent wear & tear on a machine’s critical components. Subsequently, this would further ensure that the equipment is functioning properly.
3.Improved Performance
Another major benefit of maintaining heavy-duty equipment is that the machine operates at peak performance. Regular testing includes lubrication and cleaning, which can help prevent equipment from overheating or failing.
4. Enhanced Safety
Safety becomes a top priority when operating a heavy-duty machine. Subsequently, conducting regular testing of such equipment can aid in identifying potential or prevailing hazards. Moreover, proper conduction can help escape accidents beforehand.
This process, for instance, involves steps like checking brakes, electrical systems, and other critical components. Overall, all these components ensure that the equipment operates safely and reliably.
5. Cost Savings
Last but equally crucial, conducting periodic testing properly can save significant maintenance costs in the long run. This subsequently would save expenditure for business, generating more profits. Also because preventive maintenance is relatively less costly than replacements or repairs.
Therefore, it cuts the costs associated with the machine’s downtime and reduces productivity. Moreover, routine testing can help professionals evaluate minor issues beforehand.
So, these were all the benefits associated with timely heavy-duty machine testing. Now that we have covered all our blog topics let’s give a final thought.
Final Thoughts
Heavy-Duty equipment significantly facilitates infra projects of all scales. This includes construction, mining, plantation, and other industries. These equipment are engineered to withhold tough working conditions and deliver high output.
However, like any mechanical equipment, they, too, require regular maintenance. Conducting the same ensures optimal performance while increasing the machine’s longevity.
To illustrate, testing & maintenance offer significant benefits. For example, reduction in downtime, equipment lifespan extension, improved performance, enhanced safety, and cost savings. More importantly, businesses that mindfully invest in the equipment maintenance check are majorly benefited in the long run.
