If you're running a mining operation, you know full well just how expensive it is to replace any of your heavy equipment. To avoid such a cost, it's vital to ensure that machinery is in good working order on a regular basis through safety checks and inspections.

When these machines start to exhibit natural wear and tear, it's also important to understand how to better maintain such plant.

The following tips will help you get a better handle on proper procedures and schedules to do just that – and increase the lifespan of your equipment:

Set an inspection schedule

One of the best ways to identify potential issues with any equipment you've invested in is to check it all regularly. Often, issues slip through the cracks or go unnoticed until they become bigger problems, and potentially pose a danger to your employees. Consequently, you should strive to inspect all equipment to make sure it's in good working order on at least a monthly basis, if not more often depending on how much use they get.

This type of maintenance certainly carries less expense than the cost of repair or replacement. While setting up a proactive inspection and servicing schedule can be costly and time-consuming to begin with, it repays itself in less unexpected donwtime, uncompromised production and lower repair costs down the track. 

Store and service it properly

Another issue that often leads to mining machinery breakdowns is when equipment is left out in the open for long periods of time. Any such machinery should be stored under cover whenever possible, and while there it should also be cleaned thoroughly so no debris or materials collect on it and have a chance to corrode its surfaces. Likewise, this is the proper time to make sure all components are properly lubricated.

Determine whether to repair or replace

There are clear advantages to either repairing or replacing older machinery, depending upon your budget and needs. Replacing it comes with the advantages of upgrading older models with new features and greater reliability, as well as a longer lifespan before equipment needs to be serviced again. However, it also costs more and may take longer to put into place. On the other hand, repairs are less costly and have reduced turnaround times, but may only put a bandage on issues with older plant.

Depending upon the size of your operation, properly maintaining all your mining machinery can be a daunting task. By partnering with SRO Technology for your maintenance needs, you may gain a little more peace of mind knowing that measuring machinery specialists are on hand to help.