We all know the benefits of regular maintenance of machines,
whether that’s oiling moving parts, replacing worn ones or checking speeds and timings. Maintenance is essential to keep things running smoothly.
There are a number of additional reasons why regular maintenance is prudent. One is that, during maintenance, you might discover something that if left unchecked could become a far bigger – and more expensive – problem. Another is that regular maintenance can improve the longevity of a machine. Think of it as a health check. In some instances, maintenance is required by law. Vehicles, for example, are subject to an annual MOT once they are over three years old.
If a machine breaks down it can be costly. Yes, there’ll be the cost of repairing or replacing it, but there are additional costs incurred from the downtime. You might be able to redeploy workers, or they might have to sit twiddling their thumbs until the machine is available again. And what about delays in customer orders? If you can’t access vital parts or work in progress, then things grind to a halt and could result in cancelled orders and missed opportunities.
Storage Carousel Maintenance
When it comes to the inspection, operation and maintenance of a storage carousel it’s not an optional activity, it’s a legal requirement. Under LOLER (the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998) and PUWER (the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998) storage carousels and shuttles have to be examined at least once a year. It’s also necessary to keep records of inspections carried out and relevant findings.
Both LOLER and PUWER aim to ensure the safety of machine operation and, whether you own or rent the machinery, it’s up to you to see they are implemented.
As part of Linpic’s standard maintenance contract we carry out services twice a year and a detailed maintenance report sheet is completed at each visit. It takes care of record-keeping, provides peace of mind and helps prevent the costs and losses associated with machine downtime.
While checking is essential, it isn’t a lengthy process – our engineers can normally conduct a thorough check of a Kardex shuttle or Linpic storage carousel in about an hour – so your machine won’t be out of operation for long. Should stock be required urgently within that period, access can be facilitated within a few minutes.
We can either carry out an inspection on demand or as part of a planned maintenance contract. We offer a range of options when it comes to maintenance contracts, ranging from basic twelve-month cover to contracts lasting for two, three, four or five years. Depending on the level of cover you opt for, machine failure callouts and parts may also be included.
To find out more about either our ‘on demand’ service or maintenance contracts, and how they can benefit you and your business, get in touch. We can talk you through the options and help you decide which best suits your needs.