Material handling equipment is at the core of operations in warehouses, factories, and logistics centers. Whether it’s a forklift, pallet truck, or an electric stacker, these machines bear the load of daily work, ensuring that goods are transported safely and efficiently. However, the key to keeping your MHE running smoothly and extending its lifespan lies in regular and proper maintenance. Here’s a small guide for you to know how you can maintain your material handling equipment for optimal performance.
- Establish a Preventive Maintenance Program
The first step in ensuring the optimal performance of your equipment is establishing a preventive maintenance program. Rather than waiting for something to break down, a preventive approach helps identify and rectify minor issues before they become significant problems. This program should include:
- Scheduled inspections for mechanical wear and tear
- Regular lubrication of moving parts
- Cleaning and dusting to prevent debris from affecting machine functionality
- Component replacements when needed (belts, hoses, etc.)
Having a schedule that suits your equipment’s usage frequency and workload will keep it in top condition and avoid unexpected downtimes.
- Perform Daily Inspections
Daily inspections should become routine for all operators of material handling equipment. Before starting work, the operator should check:
- Fluid levels like oil, hydraulic fluids, and coolants.
- Brakes and tires for wear or damage.
- Forks and lifting attachments for cracks or signs of stress.
- Lights, horns, and alarms for proper functionality.
- Battery levels and charging cycles for electric machines.
These checks can be quickly done at the start of each shift and ensure any issue is detected before the machine is used.
- Keep Equipment Clean
Cleaning might seem like a small task, but it plays a crucial role in ensuring equipment longevity. Dust, dirt, and debris can accumulate on moving parts and electrical components, leading to wear or failure. Ensure that:
- Exterior surfaces are wiped down regularly.
- Electrical contacts and terminals are free of dust, especially in battery operated batteryoperated machines.
- Air filters are cleaned or replaced to avoid engine inefficiencies.
By keeping the machine clean, you help prevent overheating and mechanical failure while ensuring smoothsmoother operations.
- Check and Maintain Hydraulic Systems
The hydraulic system plays a vital role in most material handling equipment, particularly forklifts. Keeping this system in optimal condition is crucial for maintaining lifting performance. You should:
- Monitor fluid levels and top up when necessary.
- Check for leaks or damaged hoses regularly.
- Ensure seals and pistons are in good condition.
Any signs of sluggish movement or unusual noises should be investigated immediately to prevent further issues.
- Battery Care for Electric Equipment
Electric material handling equipment, like forklifts and pallet trucks, relies on batteries. Proper battery care can significantly impact the machine’s performance and lifespan:
- Charge batteries correctly: Don’t overcharge, and avoid partial charging cycles, as this reduces battery life.
- Monitor water levels in lead acid batteries and top up with distilled water when necessary.
- Store batteries properly when not in use, and avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures.
A well maintained battery keeps the equipment running efficiently, extending both the battery and machine’s life.
- Proper Tire Maintenance
Tires may seem like a minor part of the equation, but in material handling equipment, they are critical to maintaining stability and safety. Worn or damaged tires can affect the machine’s ability to carry heavy loads, leading to poor handling and increased risk of accidents. You should:
- Check for tire wear regularly, including the tread and sidewalls.
- Ensure tires are properly inflated according to the manufacturer’s specifications.
- Replace worn tires as soon as signs of balding or cracking appear.
Good tire maintenance also improves fuel or battery efficiency, as well maintained tires reduce the amount of friction and resistance during operation.
- Train Operators on Proper Use
Even with a great maintenance program, equipment can only last so long if not used properly. Operator error can result in unnecessary wear and tear or even catastrophic damage. Proper training should include:
- Basic maintenance skills so operators can identify issues early.
- Understanding load limits and lifting procedures to avoid overloading.
- Gentle handling to minimize stress on the equipment.
Well trained operators are the first line of defense in extending the life of your material handling equipment.
- Invest in Spare Parts and Professional Servicing
No maintenance program is complete without access to the right spare parts and professional servicing. Stocking essential parts like belts, filters, and hoses ensures that minor issues don’t lead to significant downtime. Additionally, scheduling regular professional servicing with a certified technician ensures that all components of your equipment are in optimal working condition.
Conclusion:
Proper maintenance is essential for the longevity and optimal performance of your material handling equipment. From establishing a preventive maintenance schedule to ensuring proper operator training, each step is crucial in avoiding costly downtime and improving operational efficiency.
When it comes to choosing the right material handling equipment, reliability, efficiency, and performance should never be compromised. At OM, we’ve been dedicated to providing high quality, durable equipment for over a century. Whether you’re looking for diesel forklifts, electric stackers, or battery operated pallet trucks, you can trust OM to deliver exceptional value.
Partner with a reliable brand for long term success with your material handling equipment. Contact us today at 1800 270 1123 to learn more about how our products can enhance your warehouse operations and take the first step towards a more efficient future.
