Is your unit handling conveyor improving or hindering your production efficiency and bottom line? With proper maintenance—and consideration for certain factors like the type of product and usage rates—conveyor systems can last up to 10 years and generate an excellent return on investment (ROI).
There are a lot of components to take into consideration when deciding when to replace a unit handling conveyor; It requires you to walk the line between maximizing the life of the conveyor you have and knowing when to move on from a conveyor that’s no longer best serving you.
Know the Warning Signs of a Failing Conveyor
It’s common for food & beverage, manufacturing, automotive, parcel and many other industries that are reliant on unit handling conveyors to take a reactive approach when it comes to conveyor replacement.
Instead of waiting for costly critical equipment failure, you can be on the lookout for these early warning signs to help you extend the longevity of your conveyor:
- Excessive wear in rollers, v-belts, etc.
- Excessive or unusual noise
- Exceedingly high temperatures
- Incorrect belt tension or frayed belt
- Bent frame or frame misalignment
Being proactive and investing in proper preventive maintenance not only helps you get more value out of your conveyor, but ALSO gives you more control over your systems and production—especially if you are in a seasonal business. Minimize disruptions and downtime by replacing or upgrading your conveyor system during your offseason, rather than being forced to do it during peak time when orders are jammed and the system is maxed out.
Embrace the Benefits of New Technology
Systems can be the lifeblood of warehouse operations, so relying on an old one can begin to cost more than replacing it. So, when does upkeep start costing you more money than it’s worth?
With rapidly-evolving technology, outdated machinery and parts could be hitting you with opportunity costs and diminishing your ROI.
If you suspect your system is affecting your overall efficiency and bottom line, consider these benefits and advantages of investing in newer equipment:
Less required maintenance – While having regularly scheduled maintenance is a crucial factor in keeping equipment performing at peak levels, too many unscheduled repairs can add up, leading to increased downtime costs for a facility.
Quieter production – Reducing noise is not only safer and will protect your team’s hearing, but will also increase productivity and save you money on ergonomic and safety supplies, such as ear plugs.
More energy efficient – Embracing new technologies replaces headaches with possibilities. By upgrading to newer generation conveyor systems, you can save on energy + electricity, lowering your overall production costs.
The Process of Selecting a New Unit Handling Conveyor at IBT
Every customer that comes to IBT looking for a new conveyor system is met with 2 primary questions:
- What is the size/weight/rate of the product they produce currently or you’re wanting to achieve in the future?
- Are there any specific conditions that you operate in or require, such as food-grade, outdoor, washdown, explosion proof?
From there, we use a project team approach for the design and implementation of advanced conveying systems solutions. Each system is the result of the coordinated efforts of our technical sales professionals, engineering staff, and, most importantly, you – our customers.
Our conveying system design philosophy involves 4 key steps to ensure accuracy, functionality and payback:
- Initial Site Survey
- Concept Development and Design
- Implementation
- Start-Up, Training and Ongoing Technical Support
With this approach, we are able to fulfill customers needs at any level, from minimal assistance to full project management to ensure a seamless project completion. Ongoing technical support is also available as necessary to ensure system performance and your peace of mind.
Request a FREE EVALUATION or Learn More
Your one-stop industrial shop is also your conveyor expert. Schedule a FREE EVALUATION today or contact IBT’s Director of Conveying Systems Jim Boatright at (913) 261-2116 to learn more.
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