Diagnosing machines in your shop can be difficult, time consuming, and potentially expensive. That’s why it’s best to be prepared by educating yourself as much as possible before the problem arises so you know if you need to level your machine.
Do you know what to look for if a product is running out of spec? Here’s a list of our top 5 go-to indicators that leveling could be a culprit.
Do you have larger sender machines that create noise and vibration? Sender machines, like stamping presses, create a ton of vibration and send it out through the shop floor. This can cause other machines to fall out of level.
If you have metal cutting machines, metal stamping and forging, machines that shake products for deburring and finishing, plastic injection molding and die cast machines, you could have vibration issues. These issues can also be caused by other indirect factors like forklift traffic, overhead cranes, and even your building’s HVAC system.
If you deal with this type of heavy vibration on a regular basis, it is worth checking that all the machines are producing to spec and staying level.
Have you recently replaced a machine with a new or refurbished one, or moved your machine to a different location on the factory floor?
In order to maintain consistent, high quality part output, your machine needs to be level. Moving a machine can cause it to fall out of level. It’s a good general rule of thumb to invest in new feet or upgrade to a wedge whenever a machine has been moved.
Has been a while since you’ve checked the leveling on your machine(s)? As part of a preventative maintenance schedule, you should check your level once every six months or once per year. Always adjust the leveling according to the manufacturer’s requirements.
If you paid undermarket for leveling products and you have a machine that requires a decent degree of precision, you should definitely check your levels. Quality-certified leveling products typically last the life of the machine. However, cheaply made products don’t last nearly as long and some can even break upon installation.
We recommend checking regularly so you have a better chance of catching issues in advance of them causing downtime.
If your machine is producing products that are out of spec there are a number of things that could be the cause. One potential culprit? Not level.
When part problems occur, oftentimes the assumption is an issue with the mold or die. Processors can waste valuable time and money on repairs or running the press to identify the problem. Leveling is a pretty clear cut fix. If this is your issue, count your lucky stars and order some new quality leveling feet or wedges.
Keep your machines in check with high-quality leveling feet and wedges! Bilz has you covered with expert advice and site audits. Contact us today to speak to an expert team member.
