The frequency of breakdowns for palletisers can vary widely depending on several factors, including the quality of the equipment, maintenance practices, the type of products being handled, and the overall operating conditions. Here are some factors to consider:
1. Quality of Equipment: The reliability of a palletiser can be influenced by the quality of the machine itself. High-quality, well-built palletisers from reputable manufacturers are likely to have fewer breakdowns than lower-quality machines.
2. Maintenance: Regular maintenance and servicing are crucial to preventing breakdowns. Palletisers that receive proper maintenance according to the manufacturer’s recommendations are less likely to experience unexpected failures.
3. Type of Products: The type of products being handled by the palletiser can affect its reliability. Some products may be more challenging to handle or may cause more wear and tear on the equipment, increasing the likelihood of breakdowns.
4. Operating Conditions: The environment in which the palletiser operates can also impact its reliability. Dust, humidity, temperature extremes, and other environmental factors can affect the machine’s performance and longevity. Robots and other equipment specified with extra, features like dust protection, low temperature ratings etc can usually overcome these challenges.
5. Operator Training: Adequate training of the machine operators is essential. Improper operation or setup can lead to breakdowns or damage to the equipment.
6. Age of Equipment: Older palletisers may be more prone to breakdowns due to wear and tear, outdated technology, and the unavailability of replacement parts.
To minimize the frequency of breakdowns, it’s essential to:
• Invest in a high-quality palletiser from a reputable manufacturer.
• Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule and practices.
• Train operators to use the equipment correctly and safely.
• Provide a suitable operating environment for the palletiser.
• Consider upgrading or replacing older equipment if breakdowns become frequent and costly.
By taking these steps, you can reduce the likelihood of breakdowns and ensure that your palletiser operates reliably and efficiently.
Taking out a support contract at the time of purchasing a palletising system is also a good way to minimise break downs, as the support package will typically include regular site visits to check and maintain the system.