The most important safety function of any piece of industrial machinery is the ability to stop. Brakes are an essential part of any crane, wind turbine or any industrial machine.
It is essential to have every component of the brake system in top working order to avoid costly replacements and repairs.
How costly is a brake replacement? Count time out of service, the time of your engineer, mechanic and other labor. Had enough?
Read ahead for servicing tips to avoid unscheduled brake replacement.
Proper Maintenance = Long Life
Even the highest quality systems need regular maintenance for longest effective life.
Some brake systems have a predefined interval of time for how often you should schedule maintenance and replacement. We recommend keeping the manufacturer’s suggestion as the maximum amount of time between servicing.
Every site has unique operating conditions. Only you can determine how frequently you use your equipment, under what load, and in what weather.
Stay vigilant to changes in performance, even gradual ones. Changes in noise or movement also indicate something is wearing.
Check Your Friction Lining
Every set of brakes has a certain safe residual lining surface. Brake pads and linings should be serviced before they become unsafe, as damage to rotors and other parts will result.
A regular check of the air gap between the plate and the brake coil is necessary for most brakes. As the friction lining starts to wear down, the air gap increases. Adjust the brakes as necessary to prevent damage.
Metal hitting metal means an expensive repair.
Contamination = Brake Replacement
Grease, oil, and debris have no place inside your brake system. Not only will they burn in the heat generated by braking, they irreparably damage the surfaces.
Contamination kills stopping power.
When your brakes are contaminated with grease or moisture, the safety of your equipment is at risk. Brakes can’t do their job of stopping motion if they can’t grab.
Contaminated brakes must be replaced. Cleaning and rebuilding is possible, but cannot be undertaken as a less than a major repair.
Inspect and Change
Any excessive vibration, hesitation, uneven load or dangerous condition is a threat to life and safety. Keep track of time, condition and use of brake systems. A basic visual inspection at every use and regular maintenance service prevents costly repairs.
Brake pads, linings, rotors and all components should be checked at manufacturer recommended intervals or sooner. Replace as necessary. Brake fluid should also be checked and changed as necessary.
Keep contaminants out of the brakes. Water, oil, grease or brake fluid can cause downtime and replacement. Never let metal hit metal.
Need to Know More?
Keep reading this blog for more information about the best equipment for your needs or contact your Kor-Pak representative today!