7 steps to work into vibrating screen walk-arounds

Vibrating screens are engineered for hard work.

Designed to maintain their g-force and constant stroke even under surge, these machines can really take a beating. That doesn’t mean they can continue to operate efficiently without attention, though.

Taking a few moments each day to ensure vibrating screens are in optimal condition will keep them running smoothly and generate a strong ROI. Here are seven easy steps to take every day to keep your machine running at peak performance.

Pointers

1. Lock out and tag out vibrating screens to ensure safety during inspection. Properly shut off vibrating screens, and ensure they cannot be turned back on until the maintenance is complete.

2. Perform a visual inspection of the machine’s environment. Pay attention to debris on walking paths and workspaces to ensure they are clean and safe. Make sure all informational signs are clean and legible. This promotes a work environment that is safer, more alert and more productive.

3. Inspect the screen for any signs of material buildup or caking. Clean the machine completely, paying close attention to areas where material may cake or build up.

4. Inspect the mounting system. Ensure the system is secure and free from damage, paying close attention for cracks or other damage that could transform into a costly breakdown over time.

5. Visually inspect the machine for signs of wear. Check for cracks and loose components, which can point to larger issues that need to be addressed. Pay close attention to safety guards, too, ensuring they are firmly in place and not exhibiting any signs of being compromised.

6. Ensure drive bearings are properly lubricated and grease lines are intact. Proper greasing is essential to a vibrating screen’s longevity and preventing unexpected shutdowns. Inspect grease lines to ensure they are in good working condition, and tighten them if necessary. Also, take note of any excess lubricant leaking from the machine. Be sure to follow lubrication intervals noted in the operation manual.

7. Perform a visual inspection of screen media. Improperly maintained screen media can pose a risk of unexpected breakdowns. Check to ensure the screen media on your vibrating screen is clean and properly tensioned, as well as free from damage or wear on the screen components. Increase the tension equally on both sides if the screen media is loose. If screen media is worn or damaged, replace it. This includes the bar rail liners.

Food for thought

Daily inspections and preventive maintenance can significantly improve the productivity and safety of vibrating screens, often preventing unnecessary downtime and saving on costly repairs. It’s an effort that will offer peace of mind in addition to greater profits in the long run.

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Wilm Schulz is service manager at Haver & Boecker Niagara.