Overstaying its welcome

Companies aiming for optimization and efficiency likely are focused on balancing investments in new equipment while extracting value from their current equipment.

While walking this tightrope, it is important to be aware of when investing in your machinery is becoming a liability. When this happens, it could be the right time to replace aging machines with newer models.

Companies should watch for a number of signs when considering replacing an old conveyor system.

Frequent malfunctions

As with all old machines, the longer a piece of equipment operates, the less effective it can become. In the conveyor space, that can become apparent when your machine malfunctions two or three times in only a few weeks or months.

You’ll notice when the malfunctions are becoming more frequent—and you’ll know then that it’s time to invest in a new conveyor.

Better models

If operating an old conveyor, a replacement likely will not be a like-for-like swap but an upgrade from your facility’s current model.

This could mean that by taking the initiative to replace the old conveyor, you’ll find a new one that actually increases your operation’s output and productivity.

If operating an old conveyor, a replacement likely will not be a like-for-like swap but an upgrade from your facility’s current model.

Belt degradation

The belts that sit on conveyors are replaceable, and you likely have spent some cash replacing a worn and tired belt over the preceding months. Unfortunately, the wear and tear that happens to a belt often can be accelerated by an old and clunky machine long past its best days.

If you begin to see more frequent belt damage on your conveyor, this is another sign to replace the whole machine and not just the belt.

New features

Conveyors traditionally have performed a variety of functions, but they increasingly have become more diversified and altered to enhance their effectiveness.

If your production line has changed in recent years, you could find that an entirely different model of conveyor will be far more effective in achieving your facility’s business objectives.

Increased capacity

A conveyor belt could become redundant or insufficient when you expand your facility. In this case, you could look to replace your current conveyor because it’s not up to your standards. You could need a larger model, a more powerful belt or a longer machine.

With these tips, you should be able to identify when replacing your current conveyor with a more modern and efficient model is the best option.

Fluent Conveyors, headquartered in Denver, is a manufacturer of roller chain belt, drag chain belt, slider bed, trough idler and package handling conveyors. More information on the company is available at https://fluentconveyors.com.