Heavy Equipment: Is it Better to Replace or Repair?

There is a common denominator between a business and the heavy equipment they use. They both aim to realise the potential and maximisation of their resources.

Heavy equipment is, for lack of a better term, a BIG deal. They keep operations moving, ensure production is not stalled and affects the overall performance of a business. Efficiency can be considered as reliant on the equipment used.

When equipment is down, panic mode is switched on.

The question arises, do I repair or do I replace?

At Electroworx, we can repair all types of machinery no matter how severe or difficult the damage.

What is heavy equipment and what does it have to do with an auto-electrician?

Heavy equipment can be considered as a type of auto-vehicle used typically in the construction industry. Machinery is particularly designed for performing tasks relevant to removing pre-existing structures and or building new ones. Construction equipment repair, usually include multiple equipment systems such as implement, traction, structure, power train, control and information.

There are different types of heavy equipment which are used for different types of work such as:

• Articulated trucks
• Asphalt Pavers
• Backhoe Loaders
• Cold Planers
• Compactors
• Compact track and multi-terrain loaders
• Draglines
• Drills
• Electric rope shovels
• Excavators
• Scrapers
• Excavators
• Bulldozers
• Road Graders
• Rock Trucks
• Skid Steers
• Multi-Terrain Forklifts
  

These are just a few examples of the various types of heavy equipment used for different types of construction.

The mechanics of heavy equipment is often relative to that of vehicles. A qualified, experienced auto-electrician may be able to repair in the event of an issue occurring with your heavy equipment.

Does heavy equipment need to be regularly maintained by an auto electrician?

In short, yes.

With any type of heavy machinery, maintenance with an auto electrician must be regularly exercised.

Here are some examples of how to maintain your heavy machinery systematically:  

a) Visit an auto electrician regularly:

Prevention is better than cure. Regular visits to an experienced auto electrician is the best way to go about exercising professional heavy equipment repair.

An auto electrician will have extensive experience with all different types of vehicles and heavy equipment and will be able to fix the issue before it evolves into a large, unresolvable problem. They will be responsible for the following when repairing and maintaining heavy equipment:

• Implementing machine control products on excavators, graders as well as dozers on site
• Testing different systems
• Both servicing and supporting control products of machinery
• Accurate Recordkeeping
• Critical thinking and solving problems fast
• They will also have a trade qualification specialising in or have background knowledge in mechanical or auto-electrical maintenance

b) Maintain regular training for machine operation:

In between maintenance periods with an auto-electrician, operators of heavy machinery or equipment are encouraged to undergo regular training for their own safety as well as the safety of the machine.

Part of this training includes performing inspections upon purchasing new equipment, this is also typical when the operator will be trained on how to correctly and appropriately look after and control the machine.

For simple training, owners and operators can refer to a manual, similar to a drivers manual which will explain each step in detail.

They can also be amended for each specific scenario and also written in much simpler language to best understand what tools or tasks need to be used or performed for each situation.   

c) Check for any unusual signs:

Just like when driving any other vehicle like a car, checking for signs of unusual activity within the heavy machinery is necessary.

Always be wary of unfamiliar signals and act swiftly to avoid causing problems or posing a danger to yourself or others.

Refer to the manuscript or manual which will explain in detail what to do in a certain scenario and if the problem cannot be solved, do not delay in taking it to an auto electrician for repairs.

Abnormal signs may include:

• High temperatures caused by lack of lubrication, worn or overused parts
• Vibrating gears that are caused when they lack alignment
• Machinery shock which can be a result of a prior accident or incorrect use or manoeuvering of the machine

Keeping an eye out for any unusual signs is very important as it can prevent a large and potentially costly issue.

d) Frequently test and or change machine lubrication:

Lubrication is the process that involves keeping machines operating smoothly in order to reduce their wear and the prevention of any excessive pressure on certain parts.

Regular lubrication is a key component of extending the life of the operating machine by minimizing any rubbing against other moving parts.  

When a vehicle is in need of lubrication, excess oil, grease build-up or any leakage around oil seals are signs to keep an eye out for.

Just like different cars use different oils, so do heavy equipment. Be sure to ask the manufacturer or refer to the manual for lubrication recommendation.

It is important to use the correct one to avoid any further complications, which can be detrimental to the machine in the long run.

In addition, regular check-ups with an auto electrician will assure any issues with types of lubrication or parts of the equipment that are not functioning properly which can be easily found by any traces of the lubricant.

e) Clean and change filters periodically

Any machinery that functions well, is the result of a clean filtration system in place.

When speaking of heavy equipment, there are many filters and seals in place in order for optimal function of the machine.

In order to achieve constant smooth operation of the machine, filters should be inspected and changed quite frequently. As frequently as every 40,000 kilometres or so.

If there are any parts that show visible signs of wear when performing regular maintenance checks, be sure to replace them to avoid serious issues later on.

f) Storage of machines

Another thing to keep in mind is the storage of heavy machinery.

Avoid keeping them in areas where they can be highly exposed to wind and excessive rain as it could affect the operation of the machine as well as cause the build-up of rust.

If machines are no longer in constant use, periodically turning them on will assist in keeping them running smoothly and avoiding serious issues.

If you work in the construction industry and operate heavy machinery frequently, it is important that you adhere to the steps above to keep your heavy equipment safely operating and in good condition.

In addition to adhering to the helpful tips, periodic maintenance checks with an heavy equipment auto electricians are also essential for heavy equipment.

Electroworx is a Sydney based mobile auto electrical service with 24/7 emergency service available, catering to clients all across the city, no matter what time of day or night.

The highly skilled and professional team have extensive experience with all types of motor vehicles and heavy machinery, with no job too difficult.

Speak to our friendly team today on 1300 824 692 or visit our website for more information.