Factory Maintenance Tips: When is the Right Time for an Upgrade

Outdated equipment is often the bane of the factory worker. Poorly functioning machines and unoptimized processes can lead to all sorts of issues in the world of manufacturing, from an inferior finished product to a dip in productivity.

Conversely, top-class equipment is a joy to behold. It can make the working day run as smoothly as possible and ensure that no one needs to blame their tools ever again.

When should you make the upgrade, however? After all, factory machines do not tend to last forever.

Here are some top tips to help you make the right decision at the right time.

If It’s Showing Signs of Wear and Tear

While a few signs of wear and tear may seem inconsequential, they can be indicative of a larger problem, or at the very least, lead to a much larger and more expensive issue later on down the line.

If you see any signs of wear and tear, a thorough safety assessment must be carried out to ensure that your factory remains safe and your processes remain effective.

This will be more obvious for certain machines, such as conveyor belt systems, as they are generally in constant use, and the belt tends to take on a great deal of strain.

Thankfully, getting hold of a reliable replacement conveyor belt is straightforward, and sometimes, a simple part replacement like this can save you money and time.

If You Are Struggling to Find Replacement Parts

If your machines are outdated, there is every chance you will struggle to get hold of replacement parts should they start to break down.

This is because manufacturers will stop making parts for outdated models over time, and what few replacements there are left on the market will likely be expensive to source. Plus, parts have generally been difficult to pin down over the last few years.

If you suspect this is the case already, an upgrade to a newer model of machine might be much more cost-effective in the long term.

If Your Machines Are Not Energy Efficient to Run

Modern factory equipment tends to be more energy-efficient than its predecessors, so if you need to cut down on the cost of your overheads, now might be the time to upgrade.

It might seem like a huge investment, but like many good business purchases, the true value makes itself known in the long run.

Similarly, if you need to cut down on wastage, you may find that newer machines can provide you with a greater level of manufacturing accuracy. This potentially translates to a money-saving in terms of raw materials.

If You Need to Introduce More Automation into the Workplace

Automation has become somewhat of a buzzword in recent times, but as a practical means to improve the manufacturing industry’s output and optimization, it should not be ignored.

If you need to introduce more automation into your own company, an upgrade is almost certainly in order.

Modern machines, particularly ones that utilize AI and machine learning to evolve and develop, can be an extremely powerful ally for any factory owner looking to streamline their effort.