Conveyor inspection program reduces costs, improves safety

A global leader in bulk material handling technology is helping conveyor users reduce operating costs and improve safety with inspection and maintenance programs designed specifically for each individual system. The Walk the BeltTM program from Martin Engineering provides regularly-scheduled reviews of belts, cleaners, tracking, chutes, dust control and other components from experienced specialists with the training and expertise to maximise productivity and reduce downtime.

Featuring immediate transfer of data and photos to facility managers, the program establishes an evolving record of each belt for current analysis and future reference.  By taking responsibility for routine maintenance and identifying potential issues before components fail, technicians assist customers in maintaining system performance and extending service life, while minimising fugitive material and unplanned shutdowns. 

“Every conveyor is different, even within the same facility” observed Martin Engineering Global Market Development Manager Mark Stern.  “So we create a specific inspection plan based on the design, capacity, throughput requirements and the desired level of fugitive material abatement.” 

Stern said that while it’s common for conveyor owners to perform service on their systems only when a component fails, it’s actually less expensive in the long run to incorporate continuous maintenance into a plant’s operational plan.  “Routine inspections can extend the life of the belt and conveyor components by preventing correctable issues from turning into major and costly headaches,” he explained.  “These programs help our customers maximise the throughput and safety of their conveyors, while reducing the chances of catastrophic failure that could interrupt production.”