Start 2025 Right: Avoid Costly Repairs

If you’re reading this, we can safely assume you’ve made it through to 2025 relatively unscathed by what was, for many Kiwis, a very trying year! Having hopefully managed to fit in a couple of weeks relaxing and hanging out with friends and family, it’s quite understandable that you and your staff are ready and raring to go for the summer season. But before you fling open the doors of your plant ready to power up your machinery and start tackling those back orders, there are a few things you need to know about machinery and the way in which it’s affected by downtime.

Machines are designed to perform at peak efficiency, but just like any system, they need regular care to ensure they run smoothly. After a long period of inactivity – even as little as a couple of weeks – most machinery, particularly heavy equipment and vehicles, requires some gentle handling before being thrown into the deep end. Running your machinery at full capacity immediately after a hiatus can lead to unnecessary wear and tear on a number of components, particularly hydraulic systems and engines. This is where industrial maintenance becomes crucial for businesses that rely on machinery for daily operations.

The most important aspect to consider when it comes to starting up your machinery after the holidays is the condition of the hydraulic fluids. When machines have been sitting idle for an extended period, these fluids tend to settle, which can cause issues if you go in all guns blazing, ready for a full day’s production. This is particularly important for factory maintenance in Christchurch, where equipment downtime can significantly impact productivity.

Hydraulic fluid is vital for smooth operating as it not only transmits power but also lubricates and cools the system. When a machine has been sitting unused, the fluid can separate, particularly in older machines or machines that haven’t been regularly maintained. This separation can lead to a thickening of the fluid, which will compromise its ability to flow properly through the system. Regular machinery repair can help ensure these issues don’t escalate into costly repairs.

In addition, moisture from the air can be absorbed by the hydraulic fluid, especially if the tank has not been sealed tightly. This moisture can lead to rusting of critical components such as pumps, valves, and cylinders. Over time, this corrosion can severely impact the machine’s functionality, potentially leading to costly industrial equipment repair.

A third potential problem is the settling of contaminants that may have been suspended in the hydraulic fluid during operation. These contaminants can build up and clog filters or passageways once the fluid has had time to settle. If you suddenly ramp up the operation of the machine, don’t be surprised if you encounter issues with pressure and fluid flow that weren’t apparent in December! This is where engineering companies in Christchurch play a vital role in providing routine maintenance and repair services to avoid such problems.

Given the potential issues caused by settled hydraulic fluids, it’s essential to ease machinery gently into full operation. Starting a machine too aggressively after it’s been idle can lead to abrupt pressure changes and system shock. This stress can damage seals, hoses, and fittings, as well as cause the motor to work harder than necessary, which can significantly shorten its lifespan. Industrial repairs often stem from avoidable issues like these, which could be prevented with a careful approach.

A gentle start will allow you to warm up the system, giving time for the fluid to thin and allowing it to perform at its best. It also gives time for any moisture to evaporate, reducing the risk of rust and corrosion, as well as helping to ensure that every part of the machine receives adequate lubrication. Many Christchurch engineering firms recommend this approach to maximise machine longevity.

  • Warm up the machine: Allow the engine to idle for several minutes before putting it under load. This will help the oil and hydraulic fluid to warm up and circulate properly.
  • Check fluid levels and quality: Before starting your machine, check its hydraulic fluid levels and look for signs of contamination or discolouration. If necessary, change the fluid or clean the filters. Routine industrial maintenance can help keep your equipment in top condition.
  • Test the controls: Before engaging in heavy work, run the machine through its paces in a low-pressure or idle state to ensure all controls are functioning properly and the hydraulic system is responding as expected.
  • Gradual load increase: Avoid jumping into heavy-duty tasks right away. Begin with lighter loads to allow the machine to adjust gradually, especially if it’s hydraulically powered. This is particularly important for heavy equipment repairs, where overloading can lead to system failure.
  • Lubrication: Ensure that all moving parts are adequately lubricated. A little extra oil during start-up, even on regularly-maintained equipment, can help protect parts from unnecessary friction.

Clint and the team at BTS Engineering strongly recommend you follow the above advice this January to give your machinery the best chance to perform efficiently and avoid unnecessary strain on components. We can’t say it enough: machines are not designed to simply be turned on and operated at full capacity after a period of inactivity. Just as athletes need to warm up before a big event, your machinery needs to be eased gently into performance mode. This not only helps to maintain peak efficiency, it will also prolong the lifespan of your valuable equipment and save you from having to call us for emergency machinery repair in Christchurch. Call the team at BTS Engineering today at 0800 885383 or email bespoketradesolutions@gmail.com.