Care and Feeding of Your Packaging System

Tips to Keep Your System Running Smoothly

1. Understand your warranty terms, and make sure to review potential warranty claims prior to the end of the term. Knowing what you can and cannot make a warranty claim on, as well as when you would have to make the claim by, can save you money in the long run if something goes wrong with your system. Staying cognizant of that information will make it more likely that your system manufacturer will be able to help you if you need it.
2. Stay on top of routine maintenance. Every machine will have tasks that must be performed and parts that need to be checked at regular intervals. Daily tasks include things like cleaning and simple inspections, and weekly tasks might include checking for dust buildup within a cabinet or lubricating fittings. On a monthly basis, you should check parts that often need replacing, such as belts and saw blades. Annually, inspect higher-end components such as gear drives that don’t wear out as frequently. You don’t want to get behind on these tasks because the effects will eventually build up.
3. Invest in a preventative maintenance program with your OEM. The manufacturer of your system will be able to provide you with a certified individual who is able to do specialized work on your specific machine. They can perform more in-depth preventative maintenance and inform you of any issues your system may have.
4. Keep good maintenance records. Part of staying on top of your maintenance will include logging maintenance whenever it’s done. Having a record that you can go back to will help you troubleshoot in the future. It can also be a resource for a future owner, should you end up selling the system.
5. Have a spare parts kit on the shelf. If a part on your system breaks, having a spare at the ready will prevent further disruptions in your facility. Your manufacturer may include a recommended list of spare parts to keep on hand if your system has certain components that tend to break or wear out frequently. Keep these handy, and you won’t have to wait days or weeks for a new part to arrive.
6. Consider upgrading your system. As we mentioned above, a packaging system is a significant investment, and not one to be taken lightly. Often these machines will last decades before needing to be replaced. However, if your aging system needs frequent repairs, the cost of maintenance can quickly outpace the cost of an entirely new system.