If you’re running an abrasive blasting operation, you understand the importance of reliable equipment. Your Protoblast Oscillating Conveyor System is a crucial part of your operation, ensuring that your abrasive is efficiently conveyed through to the Bucket Elevator. While the Protoblast Oscillating Conveyor is the most maintenance-friendly system there is, if you want to ensure that your conveyor system delivers optimal performance and lasts for years to come, regular maintenance is essential.
Here are some maintenance tips to help you get the most out of your Continuous Oscillating Conveyor System:
Inspect regularly for wear and tear
Regular inspections of your conveyor system can help you identify and address any potential problems before they become significant issues. Be sure to inspect the V-belts, pulleys, rollers, bearings, and other moving parts regularly. Look for signs of wear and tear, such as frayed belts or worn pulleys. The Oscillating conveyor is designed with a very specific speed to ensure a harmonic and energy-efficient operation so wear in the pulleys will cause the abrasive to slow down, and even the conveyor in reverse causing it to spill over the rear. The small pulley on the motor is the most common one to wear, the belt when in place correctly should sit slightly higher than the outside diameter of the pulley. Once it sits below the outside diameter it is time to replace the pulley. The other critical item is the small end bearing. This bearing takes all the load and motion so it is critical to monitor. The first sign of wear is normally a knocking noise indicating increased tolerance. Once this has been noticed a replacement should be carried out as soon as possible to prevent damage to the connecting parts.
Keep the system clean and debris-free
Abrasive blasting can generate a lot of debris, which can quickly build up on your conveyor system. This debris can cause your system to malfunction or even fail, so it’s important to keep your system clean and free of debris. Regularly sweep and vacuum the area around your conveyor system, and use compressed air to blow away any debris that may have accumulated on the system itself.
Lubrication of bearings
When supplied new the conveyor’s eccentric unit is fitted with triple lip sealed bearings that are “greased for life”. We do not recommend greasing these bearings unless it can be guaranteed that they will be greased very regularly as experience has proven that the bearings last a lot longer without greasing than if greased and then forgotten.
Rubber Pins
The conveyor gently rocks on rubber pins. These are very long-lasting and should only need inspecting every 12-18 months with most customers getting 10+ years before they need replacing.
Monitor motor and electrical components
Your conveyor system’s motor and electrical components are critical to its performance. Regularly check these components for signs of wear, damage, or overheating. If you notice any issues with your motor or electrical components, contact a qualified technician to address the problem.
Maintaining your Continuous Oscillating Conveyor System is key to optimal performance and longevity. By following these maintenance tips, you can help ensure that your system runs smoothly and efficiently for years.
What are the next steps to take?
Organize a free consultation with us to find out more about the Continuous Oscillating Conveyor System and how it could benefit your company.
Give us at Protoblast a call on 1300 011 583 or complete our online form.