Understanding Custom Machining and When You Need It

You’re in the market for that elusive, distant, yet perfect machine part.

But this search has probably gone for weeks — even months!

If this sounds like you, then it’s time to stop searching and start using custom machining.

Custom machining provides access to limitless machine designs that can be quickly produced. With these benefits, it’s no wonder professional industry technicians are turning to and trusting custom machining.

Want to learn more? Then keep reading to understand custom machining. We’ll key you in on what it is, how it works, and whether it’s right for you.

What is Custom CNC Machining?

Custom CNC machining is precisely what it sounds like — creating parts explicitly customized for the buyer. From CNC turning, CNC milling, and EDM, a well-rounded custom machining company will give customers virtually any part they desire.

“CNC” refers to the CNC machine that allows this work to happen. Through precise digital design skills, remarkable speed, and an incredibly advanced machine, CNC machining takes technology design to a whole new level.

How Does it Work?

CNC machining requires a lot of work from both the design engineer and the machine itself. Here’s the basic run-down of how CNC machining works:

  1. A design engineer creates a model and its instructions with digital design software.
  2. The model and its instructions are input into the CNC machine.
  3. The CNC machine reads instructions and produces the requested machine part.

There are various CNC machines for different consumers’ needs. So despite CNC machines simplifying custom machining, CNC machines still create accurate custom parts.

Who Needs Custom Machining?

Anyone can use CNC machining services. But certain consumers need this customization more than others. Such situations that necessitate custom machining include:

  • Missing a piece for the rare machine
  • Having no suppliers for the part needed
  • Wanting a machine whose qualities exist nowhere on the market

For professional industries, these issues are pressing. An incomplete machine does not work, and one that slows down business.

But custom CNC machining removes all the hassle that’d exist otherwise. There’s no worry about supply since only you could ever own the part.

There’s also confidence afforded to custom machining, knowing that you’re guaranteed to get the exact part you like. That means no gears, just 5mm too wide, and no gearbox that’s gone missing during months-long shipping.

Reap Every Benefit Custom Machining Offers

You might have a request for a custom machine part stuck on your mind. If that’s true, then it’s time to fulfill it.

Take advantage of custom machining’s advancements in the industry. There’s little reason for you not to do so.

At Kor-pak, we thoroughly understand the ins and outs of a working machine. If you’d like to have a machine part customized by a professional who cares, then contact us today! We’ll solve all your custom machining ails and ensure that your machine runs as smoothly as possible.

 

Tips for Keeping Industrial Machines in Working Order

The USA has the world’s largest market for machinery. Are you one of the many businesses that use industrial machines daily? 

Running heavy machinery is costly and can be dangerous. If one part of your manufacturing line is out, it could affect your whole production output. 

Well-maintained machines mean a healthy production line and a healthy bottom line for your business. Ensure your machines are operating optimally with these five tips.

1. Clean Industrial Machines Often

It may seem like the most basic of maintenance tips, but it is the most important. Oil and dirt can build up in industrial machinery, which could cause it to malfunction. 

If left uncleaned for an extended period, your machine could become rusty or start corroding. This will seriously affect its performance. 

2. Keep Records

Many different staff members may use the heavy industrial machines in your business. They may not communicate with one another if something looks wrong or if they think there may be a problem arising. 

Keep a logbook by each machine so that staff can update it regularly with comments about the machine’s function. This will ensure you spot potential problems early and will save on costly repairs. 

3. Keep The Parts In Check 

As well as keeping tabs on the overall functioning of heavy machinery, you should monitor individual parts. If one part is becoming old and requires replacement, it will affect the output of the whole machine. 

Schedule regular maintenance and checks for the individual parts of the machine. Chains, belts, and pistons can wear down with regular use. A simple inspection once a month will help you determine if they need to be replaced. 

4. Lubricate Heavy Industrial Machinery

One of the easiest ways to look after industrial machines is with sufficient lubrication. You should regularly test and apply lubricants to the device. 

Different parts of the machine may require other oils or lubricants. Make sure you know the correct industrial supplies for each part. Apply lubricant often, especially when the device has undergone cleaning. 

5. Train Your Staff 

Operators are one of the leading causes of machine malfunction. If they aren’t trained on what they are doing, it can lead to accidents, especially when it comes to the more complex machines. 

The machine-making industry is changing rapidly. Digitization and more concerns about sustainability are driving change in the industry. Some newer machines aren’t so intuitive when it comes to their operating procedure. 

Keep your staff up to date with shifts in the business and help them maintain up-to-date knowledge. A small investment in your staff’s skills will impact the efficiency of your production. 

Long-Lasting Machines For Your Business

If you follow these tips, your business’ industrial machines will remain well maintained and last longer, great news for your business and staff. Well-looked after machines will provide higher productivity. Your business will thank you.  

Do you have a problem with your heavy machinery you don’t know how to solve? Maintenance not cutting it? Get in touch with one of our experts; we’d love to help out. 

How To Choose an Equipment or Machine Part Company

If you are running a construction project, you must have the right equipment to get the job done. This means choosing a high-quality machine part company that can provide you with the right parts for your cranes, hydraulic equipment, and industrial brakes, and more. Poor or mismatched equipment can result in significant downtime for your project, the costs of which can be devastating.

That is why knowing how to choose a machine part company that is right for your needs is an essential skill. If you are wondering where to get equipment parts, read on to find out how to choose an equipment or machine part company to help you deliver the results you want. 

1. Do They Offer the Machine Part You Need?

When shopping for machine and equipment parts, you must choose a vendor that can offer exactly the right parts that you need. A vendor might claim to offer crane parts, but that does not mean they will have the specific parts you need for the cranes on your building site. This principle is especially urgent if you work in a highly specialized industry such as oil rig construction, where even a single mismatched machine part can have catastrophic consequences.

2. What is Their Industry Experience? 

Even if you have found machine part companies that offer the equipment you are looking for, this does not mean they are right for you. It is important to confirm that they have proven industry experience within your sector. For example, a machine part company offering brakes for shipyard cranes might not have any experience in residential construction. It will therefore be unable to understand your machine part needs fully. 

3. Do They Have a Reputation for Quality?

There are thousands of machine part providers located across the US. Not all of these are created equal. A company might offer what you are looking for on paper, but this does not mean they have the technical expertise or customer service skills to back it up. Always seek out testimonials and reviews from previous customers. Do not hesitate to ask a seller of machine parts to provide you with references from former clients. 

4. Do They Offer Affordable Parts and Services?

On any construction project, wafer-thin margins are a constant consideration. Shop around for machine parts that you want to get an idea of what the standard prices are. A good provider should have a transparent and reasonable pricing model. 

5. Will They Be There if Things Go Wrong?

Finally, it is important to confirm that your relationship with a machine part company does not end once you have paid the invoice. If machine parts suddenly begin to break down or do not deliver what was promised, they should be on-call to help rectify the situation. Always confirm that your machine parts have a warranty attached to them and that a vendor will provide support when needed. 

Choose a Quality Machine Part Purveyor Today 

To find out more about the parts and services we offer, get in touch with our team of industry professionals today. 

 

5 Signs You Need New Belt Drives for Your Equipment

Drive belts are an essential part of any machine. And, if you’ve had your machinery for a while and you’re experiencing drives that are noisy or worn down, it’s time to look into a new one. Learn more in our guide of 5 signs you need new belt drives for your equipment.

What Are Belt Drives?

Belt Drives are an essential part of any machine. Their job is to transfer power from one point to another, making them crucial for several different pieces of equipment. Belt drives are critical in some types of machinery that you can’t operate without them.

They are usually very durable and reliable, but they can wear out or develop problems that may need addressing by replacing them with a new belt drive over time.

Signs You Need a New Belt Drive

There are many different tell-tale signs that you need a new belt drive, but sometimes you have to look beyond the belt itself and notice behavior patterns.

1. Look for Cracking or Worn Seams

When you’re working with machinery, it’s vital to pay attention to any signs of damage. Although most belt drives will last you for a very long time, it’s essential to be aware of any damage that may occur, even if it’s not causing issues at this time.

2. Look for Worn Out Belts

A worn-out belt drive that’s left to break down can cause severe damage. It will make noise and may be more challenging to replace. If you notice that your belts are wearing out, it’s time to start looking into a new set of belt drives for your equipment.

3. Look for a Worn Out Muffler

A belt drive with a worn-out muffler will bump and make noise as it moves over the pulleys. This wear may be the first sign of damage and a reason to start looking at new belt drives so your equipment can stay running smoothly.

4. Look for Issues With Synchronization

Synchronization refers to the way the belts are attached to and move over their respective pulleys. When a belt drive is out of synchronization, you can hear it humming and making much noise as it progresses.

5. Look for Foreign Objects on the Belts

If you notice small metal particles on the belts, that may be a sign of damage. Small debris gets stuck in the belt drive’s teeth, and it can also cause wear and tear or cause breakage.

Belt Drive Replacement Can Be Expensive

Remember, once your belt goes, you might damage the other parts of the machinery simultaneously. Going with a new belt drive can be a lot more cost-effective in the long run. A new belt drive can also prevent wear and tear on other parts of your machine by stressing the movement off of them.

Besides, by maintaining your belt drive, you’ll ensure that all your money will be worth more than if you neglected it and caused more damage than necessary.

If you need more advice on your belt drives, contact us today, and we can discuss your options.

What To Look for in a Construction Equipment Repair Company

When tallying your construction project’s costs, you cannot neglect the cost of construction equipment repair and maintenance. Unfortunately, construction equipment wears and tears over time, owing to the intense nature of the work they are designed to perform.

Maintenance for construction equipment can easily cost tens of thousands of dollars a year and is a largely unavoidable expense that must be factored into your delivery estimates. That is why knowing how to choose the right construction equipment repair and maintenance company is essential. If you ask, “do I need to repair my construction equipment?” read on to find out how to choose the right company. 

1. The Reputation of the Company

When it comes to construction equipment maintenance, it is essential to choose a provider with a strong industry and previous customers’ reputation. There are thousands of maintenance companies across the US, and not all are created equal. If you consider a particular company, do not hesitate to ask them to provide references from previous clients and customers. Also, make sure to consult online reviews and on-site testimonials to make sure a company can deliver.

2. The Construction Equipment Repair Experience

Even if a construction equipment maintenance and repair company has a stellar track record of success, this will not do you much good if that company has no experience dealing with the equipment you operate on your construction site. Always check that a company has a proven track record of fixing and repairing the exact models of equipment that you use. Construction equipment repair is a highly specialized field, and your maintenance company must be familiar with your equipment. 

3. Transparency 

When deciding where to fix my construction equipment, transparency is also key. A company should be upfront about what they can do and how much they will charge you. They will be honest about the length of time it will take to maintain and repair your equipment, as well as the amount of site downtime that will result from their activities. If you get the impression that a maintenance provider is not forthcoming with the information you need, consider looking elsewhere. 

4. Pricing and Value for Money 

At the end of the day, your bottom line is the most important consideration. As mentioned, construction equipment repair and maintenance will be a significant outgoing cost that will eat into your budget. Therefore, it is essential to get the absolute best value for money that you can. Remember that maintenance and repair is an investment that will improve the efficiency of your project. That is why you should not cut corners. Instead, you should be striking a delicate balance between high-quality service and competitive pricing. The best way to do this is by choosing a reputable company that is open to negotiation. 

Choose a Trustworthy Repair and Maintenance Company 

If you need construction equipment repair and maintenance now, you have come to the right place. Today, to access expert, trustworthy, and affordable repair services today, do not hesitate to contact our team. 

How to Build an Electrical Maintenance Program

Have you ever been woken up in the middle of the night by a phone call telling you a machine at your firm just failed?

Electrical asset failures can really dampen your company’s production. It can also put your workers’ safety at risk.

When regular maintenance doesn’t seem to be doing the trick, it may be time to invest in electrical maintenance programs. 

But what is an electrical maintenance program? How can you build one for your company?

That’s what we’ll be taking a look at today. In this article, we’re discussing the benefits of electrical maintenance programs and how you can build one for your own firm. 

What is an Electrical Maintenance Program?

An electrical maintenance program is a schedule of routine electrical maintenance tests. These programs test and collect data for your assets to detect any potential issues.

Most companies do an annual or bi-annual maintenance check, but this doesn’t cover all the bases. With electrical maintenance programs, you can identify parts of your system showing signs of slowing down. 

This means you and your team can take steps to fix those issues. They can also replace certain parts, preventing unexpected shutdowns and downtime.  

Benefits of an Electrical Maintenance Program

Having an electrical maintenance program means you can pinpoint certain assets that might be breaking down. This allows your team to be more proactive and perform preventative maintenance. 

This gives your company plenty of operational benefits, such as more reliable operations and fewer shutdowns. Since you’ll be experiencing fewer breakdowns, you can better manage your operating costs as well. 

How to Build an Electrical Maintenance Program

Now that we know what an electrical maintenance program is and why they’re beneficial let’s look at how you can build one for your own company. Here are some of the necessary steps:

 

Evaluate Your Situation

If you’ve already been experiencing asset failures and downtimes, you’ll already have a good idea of what your situation might be. 

When it’s clear that your situation needs improvement, start looking at your current maintenance approach. How efficient do you want your program to be? 

If this is out of your element, you can always contact a company that provides electrical maintenance services. 

Engage Your Electrical Work Group

Once you’ve fleshed out several maintenance strategies, talk to your electrical workgroup or management teams. They’ll probably know your plant or firm better than anyone else. 

Communicate your goals, and they can help develop your electrical maintenance program. Use their insights to craft a comprehensive plan. 

Understand Electrical Assets and Train

Next, gather all the information you can on your electrical assets and their history of failures. This helps you prioritize which asset failures should be addressed first. 

Once you’ve crafted a comprehensive electrical maintenance plan, create a schedule and begin training your employees. 

Leverage Electrical Maintenance Programs Today

If you work with heavy industrial equipment or in a plant, maintaining your electrical assets is key for efficient production. Use this article to build electrical maintenance programs so you’ll never have to work through constant delays. 

Are you looking to achieve peak efficiency for your heavy industry machines? Contact us, and we can get started on the right solution today!

Key Benefits of Predictive Maintenance Software

Predictive maintenance software helps businesses learn about flaws before they occur. The idea is that if the problem is predicted, then failure can be avoided. 

Due to a heavy focus on corrective and preventive maintenance, this type of software is oftentimes undervalued by businesses. But by neglecting this software, however, they could be doing themselves a disservice. 

Predictive maintenance software is helpful for several reasons, and we’ve taken the time to outline why. Read on to learn more about the key benefits of the maintenance software. 

The Purpose of Predictive Maintenance Software 

Before we dig deeper into the benefits, it’s important to understand how it works.

Predictive maintenance software is a comprehensive management system that evaluates equipment. The software uses collected data to monitor equipment and make predictions based on functions. 

It evaluates several aspects of machines. Using real-time performance monitoring, work order analysis, and inventory usage, it’s able to develop a prognosis of the equipment. 

It can be used to monitor the following: vibration analysis, oil analysis, and equipment observation. 

Reduced Downtimes 

Now that we’re clear on what the software is, we can explore its key benefits.

One of the main benefits of using predictive maintenance software is the reduced downtimes. Downtimes can lead to a long list of your business problems that can be difficult to recover from. That’s why having a system to help control this issue is important to a company’s success. 

The regular maintenance that the predictive software provides will lead to less of a need for repairs. It’s been reported that through the software, people saw a sixty percent decrease in downtimes. 

Saves Money

Less downtime is significant for business. Not only does it increase productivity, but it also increases profit. Maintenance software allows you to save the money that would otherwise be allocated to repairs and focus more on producing. 

Over time, you’ll be able to increase profits and spend less on the operational side. This will help your business continue to grow in the right direction. 

Increased Lifespan

As a result of the system, you can also expect your company equipment to last longer.

Predictive maintenance software is a condition-based program. And it focuses on pointing out potential threats and stopping them before they affect the machines. Its sole purpose is to monitor equipment and prevent machine failure.

By implementing the maintenance software, you’re investing in your operation for the long haul. 

Predict to Prevent 

Predictive maintenance software provides many benefits for companies that can help reduce machine failure and maintenance costs. The biggest key is reducing downtimes, which acts as the catalyst for the rest of the benefits. 

Regular monitoring and analysis are essential to your business’s success, and predictive maintenance software should be apart of that routine. 

Are you in need of more supplies and equipment? Then contact us today for more information on how we can help you with your business needs. 

Your Industrial Lubricant Guide: Keeping Routine Maintenance Smooth

It’s not an easy task finding the right industrial lubricant for your machines. After all, lubricants come in countless varieties and formulations. On top of that, most industries have their own regulations and standards regarding which lubricants can be used.

And when it comes to increasing your industrial equipment’s life span, safety, and efficiency, choosing the right lubricant is critical. Before choosing a lubricant for your machine, we advise you to talk with a supplier who has the knowledge to point you in the right direction.

However, if you’re looking for a basic understanding of industrial lubrication for your routine maintenance service, then this guide is a good place to start. Keep on reading to find out how to keep your regular maintenance smooth. 

Oil Lubricants

If your piece of equipment is the type that requires being lubricated regularly, then a general-purpose oil (petroleum) is typically used. Generally speaking, an oil lubricant contains 95% base oil and 5% additives. 

Grease lubricants contain base oils—usually mineral oils—and a mixture of soap to form a solid consistency. On the other hand, pastes consist of base oils, additives, and particles of solid lubricant.

Waxes are also an industrial lubricant and comprise of synthetic hydrocarbons, water, and emulsifying agents. These become fluid when a specific temperature is reached. 

Synthetic Oil Lubricants

Synthetic oil lubricants are made from artificial compounds. These artificial compounds have different properties than petroleum. Synthetic lubricants have higher purity and uniformity than petroleum-based lubricants.

For example, petroleum oils’ viscosity index rarely exceeds 100, while synthetics can rate higher than 180. Oxidation, stability, and color of synthetic oils also differ. 

Choosing a synthetic oil for your machinery usually means you need a lubricant with properties superior to traditional petroleum oils. When equipment is “lubricated for life,” then synthetic oils are often used. Here are some benefits that industrial synthetic oils provide:

  • better viscosity performance
  • less evaporation 
  • less friction
  • less wear
  • better efficiency
  • more chemically stable
  • less oil sludge issues
  • longer life 

High-quality synthetic lubricants can last up to five times longer than petroleum-based lubricants. For this reason, they tend to cost more. The higher cost of synthetic oil is often worth the extended performance life. 

How to Choose the Right Industrial Lubricant

Let’s say your need to find an industrial crane lubricant. What are some factors that will influence your selection of lubricant? 

The main requirement for choosing the right lubricant for your crane is the base oil viscosity. So how do you know the appropriate viscosity? You’ll need to answer a few questions first:

  1. What is the operating speed (variable or fixed)?
  2. What type of friction (example: sliding or rolling)?
  3. What are the load and the conditions of the working environment? 
  4. What industry standards apply?

Giving this information to your supplier will help them determine which lubricant is best suited for your equipment. For example, they may suggest a PAG oil for sliding mechanisms or a PAO oil for mechanisms where rolling friction occurs. 

Resupply Machine Parts

After reading this article about choosing the right industrial lubricant, you may realize you need new parts for your equipment. If you need a resupply of machine parts or custom solutions for your industrial equipment, then give us a call. You can request a quote from us today!

Flexible Friction: Green Gripper Woven, and The Alternatives

The Industrial sector makes up hundreds of thousands of American jobs

Every day they use tools and machinery that experience immense pressure and industrial friction. To help manage possible damage, they require specialized resources. 

One of the key ways to prevent damage is to use flexible low friction material.

If you’re a professional working in manufacturing or another industry in the industrial sector, then keep reading. In this article, we’re going to breakdown different types of low friction materials.

First Up: Green Gripper Woven

Green Gripper Woven or GGW is the Holy Grail of anti-friction materials. 

Known for its impressive wear rate, this non-asbestos blend material is perfect for high friction environments. What makes this material the industry standard is its complete recovery and ability to handle a range of temperatures. It also possesses outstanding fade resistance.

Able to perform in static and uniform frictions, this material is currently used on dry brakes and industrial brake linings. However, it works with many other industrial tools where medium to high frictions exists. 

GGW is a molded friction material available in roll form, flat sheets, or custom shapes. 

Gemini Woven (for the Money Minded)

Developed in 2009, Gemini Woven is a more price conservative option of non-friction material. But, you can still expect high-quality results.

Similar to GGW, it’s an asbestos-free material with a low wear rate. It’s resistant to oil, grease, and water, making it the ideal alternative to the premium Green Gripper Woven.

This flexible low friction material is molded and comes in roll form and custom shapes. Common applications include industrial brakes and clutches, mine winches, and elevators. It’s also popular in water-intensive machines such as fishing boats and oil drilling rigs due to its resistance factor. 

Gatke Phenolic Bearings 

These non-asbestos phenolic bearings are wholly different than the above friction materials. 

The way it’s pressed gives it unique strength and long-lasting characteristics. These bearings can withstand the harshest environments. They can survive repeated shocks and blows that would normally destroy plastics and metals. You can use them without lubrication and fear of scoring

Phenolic bearings are common in the transportation industry for freight and passenger trains. They’re also great for agricultural machinery and work well in the steel industry. 

The bearings can be custom made to meet any friction, strength, and size that’s needed. 

Low Friction Materials: It Doesn’t Stop Here

The options gone over today are only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to low friction material technology. From molded to phenolic to sintered, there’s much to explore. To gain a full scope of what material is best for you, contact a professional.

We hope this article was helpful and provided a better understanding of available friction materials. Here at Kor-Pak, we aim to help and educate others in the industry. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us or check our blog for regular updates!

 

 

Demag: The Chosen Partner For Ocean Cleanup

Humans dump around 14 billion pounds of trash into our oceans yearly. Not many people know that 50% to 80% of the world’s oxygen production comes from our oceans. It also feeds the human world population with over 200 billion pounds of food annually. 

We understand the importance of our oceans. That’s why MHE-Demag has partnered with The Ocean Cleanup.

They will be helping with the engineering design of Intercepters 005 and 006. Intercepters 005 and 006 are two machines designed to remove trash from rivers before reaching our oceans.

Who Is MHE-Demag?

If material handling is the game, then MHE-Demag is the name. Established in 1972, MHE-Demag has been a world leader in engineering, manufacturing, and maintaining cranes, hoists, and other various warehouse equipment.

With 11 factories in Southeast Asia, MHE-Demag has built over 27,000 industrial cranes. They hold quality certifications ISO 9001, EHS 14001, and OHSAS 1800. You are guaranteed all equipment produced by MHE-Demag is of the highest standard.  

Who Is The Ocean Cleanup Organization?

The Ocean Cleanup is a Dutch non-profit organization. They develop advanced technologies to rid the world’s oceans of plastic. 

The Ocean Cleanup research has shown that most of the plastic in the Great Pacific Garbage Patch are larger objects. Removing the larger debris will prevent them from breaking down into microplastics.

It is their goal to remove 50% of the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. They want to reach this goal in 5 years and maintain plastic-free oceans by 2050. They’ve partnered up with companies like DHE-Demag to build third-generation Interceptors. 

The Interceptor 005 and 006

According to The Ocean Cleanup team’s studies, more than 80% of plastic and garbage that ends up in the ocean comes from 1,000 rivers around the world. The Ocean Cleanups’ goal is to create a global fleet of river Interceptors to catch the garbage before it flows into our oceans. The Interceptor 005 and 006 will play a crucial role in meeting the ocean clean-up goal.

From Engineering Design to Production

The Ocean Cleanup organization is addressing the urgent problem of plastic in our oceans. They’re deploying Interceptors on a large scale around the world.

MHE-Demag has technological expertise in material moving. They also have production capabilities that will help lay the groundwork for an Interceptor global scale-up. 

MHE-Demag’s engineering team is helping with upgrades to the Interceptors. These upgrades will impact how effective the Interceptors are at catching, removing, and storing rubbish found in rivers.

MHE-Demag and The Ocean Cleanup

MHE-Demag and The Ocean Cleanup group’s partnership marks the beginning of a global effort to rid the world’s oceans of plastics. MHE-Demag has produced the highest standard of material moving equipment for almost 50 years and will undoubtedly help The Ocean Cleanup team meet their organization’s goals. From engineering design to production, MHE-Demag is helping lead the way in ocean plastic removal.

If you found this article interesting, read about the environmentally sustainable hardware we offer in our blog section.