Bulk Engineering, Conveyors

Conveyor auditing provides prevention rather than cure

Thomas Greaves, General Manager of DYNA Engineering, explains how high-density polyethylene is revolutionising conveyor guards, with a number of safety, convenience and maintenance benefits.

The mining industry has always considered conveyor systems as a high-risk area, which is why Dyna Engineering has an experienced conveyor audit team.

A conveyor audit is a professional examination of a facility’s conveyor belt system. It shows opportunities for improvement, decreases total cost of ownership, and identifies the most pressing issues affecting the conveyor system’s performance. 

They are extremely important to maintain conveyors consistently and effectively to minimise any potential risk to the health and safety of personnel and improve operational reliability.

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DYNA Engineering (DE) has a team who conduct conveyor audits and inspections on any size and complexity of system. As an experienced conveyor specialist with more than 30 years of experience, DE conducts audits under Australian Standards, AS1755 – 2000 Conveyor Safety.  

Through a collaborative approach, DE’s team works closely with customers to develop a comprehensive understanding of their needs, allowing for a customised solution which enhances operational efficiency and minimises downtime. Site inspections and data are collected, and a comprehensive report is produced. The report highlights the areas for immediate attention and other areas which need to be addressed.

Sharpening the focus on consistent improvement

Understanding that no two facilities are alike, DE tailors its conveyor audits to meet the unique challenges and requirements of each customer. They are designed to provide specific, actionable insights that are in harmony with the customer’s operational goals. As part of a continuous improvement strategy, regular assessments can ensure conveyor systems are always operating at peak efficiency, not only helping prevent unexpected breakdowns but also contributing to an overall employee culture of avoiding costly repairs, shutdowns and injuries.

Significant cost savings

“There have been quite a few occasions over the years where we have saved our customers hundreds of thousands of dollars in maintenance and repair costs through early detection of impending breakdowns due to wearing out or damaged conveyor componentry” said DE’s general manager, Thomas Greaves.

“We provide comprehensive reports on specific components as well as complete conveyor systems to highlight any problem areas in advance. These reports are accurate, fully detailed and up to date and include documenting Standard Operational Procedures for the inspection and maintenance of the conveyor system for both operators and maintenance personnel. The reports identify critical issues and help the customer minimise time spent on shutdowns and breakdowns. Common areas of attention include:

  • belt thickness
  • belt tracking
  • general access to equipment for maintenance
  • idler frame alignments
  • impact zone
  • pulley alignment
  • safety guards to AS1755

Life cycle and preventative maintenance planning

The company also produces life cycle and preventative maintenance plans. These assists customers in keeping equipment operating at high efficiency levels.

“Knowing the likely life left before replacement will be required on major conveying componentry means maintenance supervisors can plan fewer shutdowns for optimum efficiency and avoid expensive, unplanned stoppages which could be absolutely disastrous in some instances. It’s like being able to see around corners,” Greaves said. 

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