Factory Automation: How to Keep Equipment Running Correctly


Equipment that’s used in the automation processes of a factory tend to be fairly expensive. This means that you want to take proper care of it so that you aren’t left with costly repairs. Here are some of the methods that you can use to keep your equipment running correctly.

Use Technology Assistance Techniques

Software programs can be used in order to keep track of all of the pertinent information regarding each piece of equipment. The electrical output of your equipment can also be tracked. A surge in electricity could indicate that your equipment is about to experience a malfunction. Another thing that you might notice is that it takes your equipment longer to get warmed up or even to produce the same amount of goods over time. Using technology can give you a heads up before it’s too late.

Schedule Maintenance Regularly

All equipment will eventually need to be maintained. Some of the more routine tasks may not require you to take the piece of equipment offline. This would include quick and easy, like for like part changes. For more extensive maintenance tasks, you may need to tag out the equipment for a certain amount of time. Try to schedule your maintenance tasks around slower times of the year so that you can still meet your production quotas.

Use Appropriate Fluids

The type of industrial cutting fluid that you select to keep your machines cool while performing cutting tasks makes a difference. Select a fluid that’s compatible with the equipment that’s being utilized. Do some research so that you can find the best type of industrial cutting fluids for the job. Overheated equipment is more likely to have a shorter lifespan. This will dramatically increase your overhead costs as well as decreasing your output capabilities.

Set Capacity Parameters

Not all equipment is designed to operate at peak capacity all of the time. You may want to consult an expert or investigate the capacity parameters of your equipment. Underestimating the output may not be in the best interest of your equipment. This will of course depend on the amount of wear and tear that your factory equipment experiences during the course of daily operation. In some instances, it may be best to keep the equipment operating at peak capacity in order to avoid cool down problems.

Taking these steps will ensure that you can keep your equipment operating correctly. You don’t want to have to replace your equipment before it has a chance to more than pay for itself.