Winter is here and in full swing. The long, cold winter months are upon us and we are all looking forward to a fresh start in the spring. One way to help ensure an easy start up come spring is to make sure you are winterizing your RAP Systems.
Winterization may look different for everyone, so as a reference, we suggest reviewing your manufacturer’s operation and maintenance manual for specific maintenance procedures and/or recommendations. Additionally, you can follow these tips to help create your maintenance schedule.
Start out checking the obvious
- Belt idlers
- Proper function
- Belt scraper
- Replacement of blades
- Correct tension
- Any tears in the belt splices
- Repairs or replacements should be made, if needed
- Inspect all flashed or sealed in areas
- Worn or in need of replacement
- Screen Cloth
- Worn or in need of replacement
- Consumables, including hammers and liners
- Worn or in need of replacement
- Drives
- Fluid levels in the reducers
- Shape of the v-belts
- Guards intact
- Belt Scale
- Inspected and calibrated (go through calibration process to verify proper function prior to start up)
- Electrical switches
- Proper functioning
Putting in the extra time at the end of the season, may seem like a tedious task at hand. However, having a regular maintenance routine can really help you out in the long run. A proper schedule to follow for routine maintenance can be very cost effective and help eliminate delays in the startup process come spring. Delays create downtime, and downtime can be costly! Follow these simple steps to help ensure a smooth startup, and to make sure you have a maintenance schedule year-round. These simple steps may be the key to smooth sailing in the spring.