Maintenance and calibration of machinery

Routine Inspections

Understand the importance of regular machine inspections to maintain performance, safety, and longevity of machinery.
Familiarise with the operator’s manual which details the maintenance schedule, inspection points, and calibration process for each machine.
Be vigilant about visual checks; look for obvious signs of wear, breakage, or blocked parts.
Do not disregard strange noises or changes in performance; these could be early signs of necessary maintenance.

In-depth Maintenance

Replace worn or damaged parts immediately to prevent further damage to the machine.
Understand that certain parts, like filters or oil, require more frequent changes than others.
Always follow manufacturers’ guidelines when replacing parts to ensure compatibility and proper functioning.
Regularly clean machinery to prevent blockage and unnecessary wear.

Calibration

Understand that calibration is crucial to ensure the accuracy and consistency of machine operations.
Use calibration tools to adjust the machine operation as per required standards.
Record calibration results systematically for each piece of machinery for future reference and comparison.
Know when professional calibration is needed; some machines require specialist knowledge for accurate calibration.

Lubrication

Apply the appropriate lubricant to reduce friction and prevent wear in moving parts.
Note that different machinery might require different types of lubricant; always use a correct type of lubricant to avoid hindering machine performance.
Always lubricate at the right lubrication points and in the right amount as mentioned in the operator’s manual.
Perform lubrication regularly, but avoid over-lubrication as it can attract dirt and lead to problems.

Record Keeping

Maintain a maintenance logbook for each piece of machinery, recording all inspections, servicing, and repairs carried out.
Document any issues or inconsistencies noticed during operation in the logbook.
A well-kept record helps to plan future maintenance, identify recurring problems, and provides valuable information when selling or upgrading machinery.
Ensure all maintenance activities are done following the Health and Safety Executive guidelines to ensure legal compliance.