6 Signs That Show Heavy Equipment Require Service

If your job involves working with heavy equipment, you have to service them from time to time. This can help prevent the machinery from wearing down or malfunctioning. Taking care of industrial equipment can also minimize the risk of accidents in the workplace.

Whether you are an equipment operator or owner, you should not overlook the importance of servicing machinery. When is the right time to service such equipment? Though people service heavy equipment at different times, certain signs can help you determine the right time to do this. Here are some of the signs you should watch out for.

Low fluid levels

This is one of the visual signs that can tell you that heavy equipment requires servicing. If you notice that the industrial machinery you depend on leaks hydraulic oils or coolant, you should address this. Overlooking this is wrong since it can lead to more severe problems.

Low fluid levels mean minimal lubrication of the parts, which could cause downtime. Most heavy equipment has dashboards that feature low fluid lights. Pay attention to this. Proper lubrication can prolong the life of industrial equipment.

Some things that often cause low fluid levels include faulty valves or leakage from hoses. If you establish that the machinery has faulty valves, you can replace them with new ones from nriparts.com. Keep tabs on how often you refill fluids in heavy machinery. If you find yourself constantly refilling fluids, work with a mechanic that can help you find the cause of the problem. You can also monitor hoses and transportation belts regularly.

Strange sounds

Apart from the visual signs, auditory signs can also help you determine when you need to serve the industrial equipment. You should watch out for unusual sounds, vibrations, or smells as you operate different machinery. If, for instance, you hear a hissing sound from a piece of industrial equipment, it may indicate a possible leak in the cooling or vacuum system.

On the other hand, grinding indicates a misalignment of the valve or pump, while a clacking sound indicates a problem with the brake, combustion system, or the machine’s hydraulic. Industrial tools that perform intense labor experience this issue.

Servicing the equipment can curb further damage. You can also minimize such sounds by lubricating the parts from time to time. Avoid overworking the industrial equipment and maintain the proper operating temperatures.

Constant overheating

Have you noticed heavy equipment shutting down due to overheating? If yes, you should service it. This is one of the signs of machinery failure. When a heavy piece of equipment starts overheating, it indicates pump failure. You should service the hydraulic pump since this can prolong the life of the industrial equipment.

Exhaust problems

You should also assess heavy equipment for exhaust problems since this can tell you when it requires servicing. If, for instance, you notice thick fumes or discharge emanating from the machinery, you should not ignore them.

Exhaust fumes that smell different can lead to severe problems if you don’t address them. They can also get you into trouble with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

Some of the things that cause exhaust problems include clogged air filters, ventilation failure, or engine malfunctions. Conducting digital tests or vacuum gauge tests can help you assess the extent of damage to the equipment’s exhaust system.

Engine stalls

Have you noticed that you are having difficulties trying to stop the machinery’s engine? If yes, you should service it. Underserviced machine batteries or engine components often cause such stalls. You should conduct power tests on the engine to eliminate this problem.

Age

If you have been relying on the same heavy machinery for a long time, it probably shows signs of wear due to age. Such machinery needs servicing and regular inspection. Think about how often you use the machinery. You should ensure that an expert inspects it at least once every few months. If the equipment’s performance has significantly reduced, consider replacing it with a new one.

Conclusion

The manufacturing and construction sectors depend on industrial equipment for daily operation. Such tools require regular services to operate efficiently. If you are not sure whether your machinery is ready for service, watch out for the signs above.