How to extend the lifespan of dairy processing equipment Maintenance tips and best practices

Every part of dairy equipment is vital for efficient dairy operations. Keeping a proper maintenance track record helps in ensuring that your business runs smoothly. With the machinery running smoothly, there’s a sharp cut down on unexpected breakdowns and unnecessary costly repairs. Quality of equipment can be maintained with proper lubrication and cleaning, adopting new technologies, and many more. This blog discusses more such maintenance tips which help in understanding why maintaining dairy processing equipment is essential.

Dairy equipment maintenance tips and best practices
A well-maintained dairy processing equipment not only maximizes your investment but it also reduces the cost of repairs and replacements. With a well-maintained equipment the operational reliability enhances and there’s low risk of mishaps taking place at the production floor. Here are a few maintenance tips that every dairy processor must keep in mind for extending the equipment lifespan:

1. Creating a maintenance schedule
   Every dairy processor must create a maintenance schedule for every equipment. This is essential because a maintenance schedule contains the information of the number of hours an equipment was functioning. This will help stay updated with the dairy equipment. Dairy processors should have a master document that keeps a track of the dairy equipment. Creating a maintenance schedule is important to understand if the equipment is functioning efficiently or not. For instance, the equipment is designed for processing 50L liters of milk per day and it runs for an average of 10 hours. So, the cost of maintenance per hour is rupee 1 and if the cost of maintenance crosses rupee 1 then there’s an issue that needs immediate attention.

2. Pen down the plan for routine maintenance
   To maintain and extend the machines lifespan, routine maintenance is important. With regular inspections it becomes easier to detect defects or minor issues and prevent from any future mishap. Integrating routine equipment check in day-to-day activities is the best cost-effective method in keeping the business run smoothly.

3. Keep the maintenance records accurate and up to date
   Maintaining a dairy equipment can be tough at times. Maintenance records is where all the information relating to the machine, i.e., checking electrical system till lubrication, everything gets recorded. This helps to know when which part was inspected and which part requires immediate action. A detailed maintenance record can save on time and money as it can prevent from any major breakdowns.

4. Keeping the dairy processing equipment sanitized
   A clean equipment will process high quality products with a longer shelf life. This being one of the most important reasons of keeping the dairy equipment clean. Another reason being, the dairy equipment hoses collect debris and the rubber joints might leak, causing product failures. To avoid such scenes, timely cleaning and lubrication becomes crucial to keep the equipment running smoothly.

5. Prioritize quality of investing in genuine and original replacement parts
   Cheap equipment spare parts often tempt the processors into purchasing them shadowing the identity of being cost-effective. But that is temporary. Cheap parts often wear out fast and require frequent replacements causing higher downtime. Hence, it is suggested to always pick high-quality parts even though they cost a little higher as of date. It is suggested because in the longer run high-quality parts result in higher performance and reduces the risk of unexpected breakdowns. They also require fewer repairs.

6. Innovative technologies for machinery maintenance
   Maintenance of machinery is being modernized by new technologies. Predictive maintenance software, sensors, and monitoring systems are inexpensive options that assist to keep the equipment operating efficiently and prevent expensive malfunctions. With sensors and real-time monitoring systems dairy processors can enhance the maintenance routine by checking temperature, vibration, and fluid levels. And predictive maintenance software uses sensor data to predict potential failures. Remote support for troubleshooting the emergency situations is one of the most essential advancements in technology that every dairy processor must adopt to. It is best provided by the original equipment manufacturer as they are completely aware about the machinery’s in and out. There are also other advancements like VR’s for on-the-spot troubleshooting. Here the manufacturer’s support team connects with the device and can see in real-time where the equipment is causing an issue.

7. Build a relationship with the dairy equipment manufacturer
   Like choosing the right equipment for your dairy processing is important, having the right dairy equipment manufacturer like Neologic Engineers, by your side is always beneficial. Equipment manufacturers like Neologic Engineers knows how to keep a machine run smoothly. Regular maintenance services for dairy equipment from Neologic Engineers can help your business run as efficiently as possible.

Bonus tips

• Store equipment in a dry shed or barn to protect it from weather damage.
• Use weather-resistant covers to shield machinery from rain, snow, and sunlight.
• Keep machinery on pallets to prevent contact with ground moisture and rust.
• Regularly check stored equipment for moisture, rodents, and other issues.
• Top off all fluids and lubricants before storage to fight internal corrosion.

By following these tips dairy processors can reduce the wear and tear of the machinery and keep it functional for a long span.

The bottom line
Dairy equipment maintenance is crucial, even though it's not the most interesting aspect of your business. The cost of maintaining your equipment doesn't have to be high. You may increase the equipment's lifespan by employing proactive maintenance, appropriate lubrication, creative storage, and team training. Purchase high-quality components, keep track of all repairs, and avoid expensive malfunctions. Adopt innovative technologies to maintain the smooth operation of your equipment. These procedures not only increase the longevity of dairy processing machinery but also improve productivity, guarantee adherence to safety standards, and save operating expenses. For sustainability and long-term production, it is imperative to invest in appropriate maintenance.

For more details visit - Neologic Engineers