The sun is shinning and temperatures are rising, if you're not careful, more heat-related breakdowns. Hence, you need to be aware of potential problems, the extra heat can wreak on your equipment. In this article, we will list some tips for keeping your equipment up and running during the heat of summer.
1. Keep it clean
This applies to the inside as well as the outside of all your machines.
When dirt and mud build up under the hood (on components such as radiators, engines and reservoir tanks), they act as insulators, making it more difficult for heat to dissipate. In the case of hydraulic systems, this is especially important since most don't have any built-in coolers. They rely on ambient heat transfer to cool the fluid.
On the outside, concentrate on keeping the fill cap area clean to minimize the potential for admitting dirt and debris into the reservoir when you unscrew the cap. And when applying grease, keep any excess lubricant off of the equipment because it can attract dirt that can eventually work its way into the bearings and cause wear.
2. Switch off or switch to sleep mode when not in use
You may not use a particular machine all day. Therefore, whenever you don't need a machine such as an excavator or grader, turn it off or switch it to sleep mode. This will allow the machine to cool down and prevent it from overheating. There is also the added benefit of saving on energy costs and the amount of oil the machine needs.
3. Proper operation
The operator must avoid overusing the equipment during the summer months. Overloading may lead to expensive breakdowns and overheating. In addition, to avoid damaging the machine's turbine, the operator needs to ensure that the machine is allowed to idle before switching it off.
4. Store equipment in the shade
One of the easiest and most straightforward ways to protect your heavy equipment from the harsh summer sun is to store it in the shade. Whether you have an enclosed storage area or a fully shaded parking area, keeping your equipment out of the sun can greatly extend its life and prevent heat damage.