Simple Solutions That Work! Issue 18

which are to be kept in inventory for repair purposes. Each data entry should also record the date, nature, duration, and cost of every repair made to each piece of equipment listed. This information is important in reaching decisions concerning replacement of equipment. The success of any maintenance program is largely dependent on the ability of the maintenance supervisors to implement completely the inspection, lubrication and corrective maintenance procedures. This means that the program must have the complete support of top management and that the supervisors, themselves must be able to exercise a proper degree of authority over those areas for which they are held responsible. As the improved inspection methods help to determine with greater accuracy when individual pieces of equipment should be overhauled, breakdowns will become less frequent. The maintenance workshop will now be called upon to undertake pre-planned overhauls when machines become available during off-production time. The function of the shops will thus gradually move away from the emergency squad activities toward controlled machine servicing activities. The understanding and enthusiasm of those responsible for the execution of a maintenance program are important factors in determining its ultimate success. Consequently, it is important that both supervisory and technical personnel in the group receive formal training in the reasons for, philosophy behind and benefits derived from a maintenance program. Training is another topic in and of itself. Many of today’s manufacturers of equipment will come on-site to perform training for your operators and we think that is money well spent. “Not getting around to it” is old school thinking and has no place in the foundry world. Today’s successful foundries that establish maintenance and inspection schedules and programs are now the norm, and show bottom line savings and reduction in safety issues because of it. 19 HOW TO ISSUE Contact: JERRY SENK [email protected]