Aggregates Manager Digital Magazine
Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/674527
AGGREGATES MANAGER / May 2016 27 access for greasing and maintenance of the plant. Portable equipment uses additional remote grease lines, is more compact, and typically does not provide for platform access, which can present unique challenges in accessing key areas for maintenance. "Once producers understand how the equipment is built and where the key maintenance points are, it is simple to create a maintenance program that is precise and easy to follow," Lippert says. "Developing a structured program ensures proper maintenance protocols are followed and accomplished." Lippert recommends focusing on the following three key maintenance points when developing a program: 1. Lubrication schedule: Lubrica- tion is often the only maintenance definition offered when asked if one maintains their equipment. It is certainly an extremely import- ant component of a maintenance program and deserves its own focus, Lippert says. A lubrication schedule should include suggested intervals, grease and oil types, along with the location and desired quantity of the lubricants. A checklist provides completion accountability. Having a checklist also provides structure so that anyone tasked with the job can easily accomplish it, although ideally everyone receives the same task training. Lippert reminds producers that it is vital to use only manufac- turer-recommended lubricants. "Using a less-than-quality lubricant could cause catastrophic failure and can result in a voided warranty," he cautions. 2. Maintenance repair log: Daily maintenance should include lubri- cation, but it should also include walk-around inspections, which will serve as a time to assess risks and identify necessary adjustments due to wear. When performing a plant walk-around throughout the day, producers should look for anything out of the ordinary, such as broken or missing bolts, cracked welds, and material build-up. Nothing should be considered too small or ignored. By developing a repair log, producers can identify issues, identify what parts are needed, estimate a time to repair the issues, and determine whether the equipment is in need of immediate attention or if it can wait for scheduled downtime. Once finished, there should be a provision for a completion date. To understand proper care of a portable crusher, the operator must first understand how it is built.