Winter can be tough on machinery. The combination of very cold temperature and damp air creates an atmosphere that can lead to accelerated higher wear and tear, unexpected failure, and reduced lifespan. Calling us in for preventative maintenance is the key to keeping things running smoothly when it matters most.
How winter cold affects machinery
Cold causes most materials to contract at the molecular level. That means that machinery that runs to tight tolerances can run slower and need to work harder because the clearances between moving parts are less. That can mean key components wear at a higher rate, which increases the potential for catastrophic failure when the temperature rises and the pace of production speeds up again in spring.
Even items that seem to have larger operating tolerances like flexible conveyor belts can shrink in the cold, putting extra strain on both the belt itself and its drive mechanism.
At our maintenance visits, we can make sure your machinery is running within its design tolerance and if not we can make adjustments or replace parts that have worn before they fail. At the very least, it’s a great time to check that the lubricants and oil levels are all up to spec.
How damp affects machinery
Highly moisture saturated air provides the perfect conditions for oxidisation of metal components – whether they’re steel, copper, aluminium, or any other alloy. And there is a long list of reasons why you definitely do not want corrosion developing – that includes everything from reduced equipment lifespan to reputational damage. Unfortunately, moist, cold winter air provides the perfect environment for corrosion to develop undetected inside machinery.
Electronics are especially vulnerable to damage in damp conditions. Once an electrical system failure occurs it can be difficult and time consuming to trace exactly where the problem is. It can also create risks to staff from shocks and fire.
Corrosion weakens metal parts, making them more prone to unexpected failure, and if it affects the interface on moving parts it can cause reduced power output, rough running, and higher energy consumption.
In food processing, corrosion can cause contamination, leading to food safety being compromised.
Why winter is the best time for preventive maintenance
As well as nipping any potential downstream problems in the bud, winter is usually a less disruptive time for us to come in and do our thing. Many South Island businesses run at a slower pace over winter meaning a maintenance pause affects production less.
Get in touch and we’ll work out the best time to visit your facility.
Your second chance to win our Facebook ‘Big Night Out’ Promotion
Jim Eagle, the winner of our promotion on Facebook last month, has very generously offered up his prize to be won again this month. Head over to our Facebook page and be in to win a $50 voucher for the Silky Otter movie theatre and a $100 to spend at The Good Home restaurant and bar. Good luck!
Get in touch to book your winter preventative maintenance now.
We do get busy in winter because many of our customers understand the importance of preventative maintenance – and winter is a great time for us to schedule a visit. We visit all sites all over the South Island. So if you haven’t already give us a call and book us in. Ring BTS Engineering on 0800 885 383 and rest easy.