How Often Should You Perform Maintenance on Your Conveyors?

In the logistics industry, there is only one way to achieve perfection when moving materials and goods through production or processing lines: conveyor systems. They ensure smooth operations and, consequently, improve profitability.

However, like any mechanical system, conveyors need a regular maintenance program to sustain optimal performance, mitigate wear and tear, and prolong their operational lives. Creating a well-articulated upkeep timetable tailored to their specific types and usage is paramount.

The frequency at which a conveyor system should be maintained can vary based on several factors, including the type of equipment, the environment in which it operates, and the materials it handles.

Here are some general guidelines as advised by Joloda Conveyor Services' engineers:

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daily maintenance

Regardless of the type of conveyor your company has, it is important to check it daily for various issues. These issues may include stuck parts, broken electrical systems, damage, worn belts, strange noises, and objects on the belt.

Daily maintenance might include greasing the roller bearings, adjusting the blade tension, and removing dirt or debris.

weekly/monthly maintenance

On a weekly or monthly basis, maintenance tasks should focus on preventing common conveyor issues like belt mistracking, belt slippage, and material carry-back. This might include inspecting and cleaning idlers and rollers, checking the lagging on the head drive pulley, and scanning for improperly installed or poor-quality scrapers.

maintenance based on manufacturer's guidelines

Our systems usually have a manual that provides guidelines on when to check all the parts. Following these guidelines is crucial for maintaining the system properly over time.

Some maintenance tasks are performed only when necessary, such as replacing worn or damaged equipment, performing belt repairs according to the manufacturer's specifications, and replacing lagging every three to five years or as specified by the manufacturer.

maintenance timetable for key conveyor components

Here are our general recommendations:

BELTS

Daily: Visually look for wear, nicks, or cuts.

Weekly/monthly: Inspect for belt mistracking and slippage. Clean when necessary.

IDLERS AND ROLLERS

Perform weekly inspections, especially if extreme environmental or operating conditions are present.

PULLEYS

Weekly/monthly: Check for worn lagging on the head drive pulley and ensure it's properly installed.

LAGGING

Replace it every three to five years.

SCRAPERS

Clean, inspect for damage, and add tension to the blade daily. Replace worn-out or malfunctioning scrapers as soon as you identify any problem.

POWER MODULE/GEARBOX

Perform a comprehensive check and maintenance every 2,500 hours of service.

BEARINGS

Track hours of operation and replace as per the manufacturer's recommendations.

DUST CONTAINMENT SYSTEM

Weekly: Replace, repair, or clean as needed.

These guidelines are generalised and may need to be tailored based on the specific conveyor system setup, manufacturer's instructions, and the material being conveyed.

consequences of overlooking conveyor maintenance guidelines

Neglecting the manufacturer's manual regarding conveyor maintenance can lead to many problems, potentially causing substantial operational disruptions and financial repercussions. Lack of proper upkeep can lead to accelerated wear and tear on conveyor components, significantly shortening their working lifetime.

It can also cause unexpected breakdowns, leading to increased downtime. The consequences can be severe, especially in industries where timely operations are crucial.

Moreover, conveyor systems may operate less efficiently if maintenance guidelines are not followed. This could result in slower operations, decreased throughput, and accidents like entanglements or falls. It's also crucial to remember that minor issues can escalate into major problems if left unaddressed, leading to higher repair costs in the long run.

Furthermore, a faulty conveyor system can damage the processed or transported products. In some industries, failing to adhere to maintenance guidelines can result in non-compliance with regulatory standards, which might entail fines or other penalties.

Many manufacturers require adherence to their instructions to keep the warranty valid. Ignoring these policies could void the warranty, leaving the owner to bear the total cost of repairs or replacements.

Finally, poorly maintained conveyors may require more energy to operate, leading to higher energy bills. Inefficient operation could also lead to increased emissions and a higher carbon footprint.

Do not forget that continuous operational issues due to poor maintenance can tarnish the reputation of a business, possibly contributing to the loss of clients or customers.

joloda's maintenance services: your pathway to uninterrupted conveyor operations

Leverage the unparalleled benefits of Joloda Conveyor Services to ensure your systems run smoothly and efficiently. By utilising our services, you can have peace of mind and channel your attention towards what truly matters for your business: bolstering efficiency and productivity.

With a diverse range of services tailored to meet your needs, Joloda is committed to keeping your operations fully functional and optimised. Here's what we offer:

reactive breakdown services

Swift and effective solutions to get your equipment back up and running with minimal downtime.

pre-planned maintenance

Scheduled maintenance services to avoid potential issues, ensuring the durability and efficiency of your systems.

conveyor asset management

Holistic management solutions to maximise the performance and lifespan of your assets.

24/7-365 service availability

Round-the-clock assistance to address any urgent issues.

highly trained engineers

Benefit from the expertise of engineers who undergo rigorous training and regular audits to maintain the highest service standards.

free assessment

Avail a no-cost comprehensive review of your conveyor systems to identify areas of concern and prevent future problems.

national coverage

With a vast service network, get the support you need regardless of location.

over 100 qualified mechanical & electrical engineers

Rest easy knowing that a team of over 100 qualified engineers is ready to tackle any challenge your conveyor system may present.

Keep your conveyor systems in peak condition with Joloda Conveyor Services. Whether it's a sudden breakdown or routine maintenance, our team of experts is just a call away. Contact us today.

maintain your conveyors with joloda conveyor services

Our maintenance service keeps your conveyor system running efficiently and safely. Our engineers will assess your machine and advise whether you need conveyor service, parts replacement or other essential work. We'll flag any areas of concern and the work required to prevent future problems. Our team will also check if there's anything more immediate that you need to address regarding conveyor safety.

Regularly maintaining your conveyor system prevents accidents caused by malfunctions or faulty operations. Contact us today to learn more about our services.

about Joloda Conveyor Services

We are a unique service provider, focused 100% on repairs, maintenance and refurbishment of conveyor systems. Our team of conveyor carers are experts because they are not distracted by lots of additional bolt-on services; when your equipment needs attention, we’ll carry out conveyor troubleshooting and fix the problem to get you back operational as quickly as possible.

Learn more About Us and how we can help to keep your, and the UK's conveyors rolling, by preventing and fixing common conveyor belt problems.

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how often should you perform maintenance on your conveyors?