Have you ever wondered why some plants turn out better products than others? It has a lot to do with the workers they hire, but it also has to do with the way they care for their equipment. If you keep your equipment in good shape, the products you turn out will be more consistent — and that is true in most any industry. Train your workers to keep the space around their equipment clean and clear. Remind them to lubricate their machines and report any abnormalities ASAP. As you read on this blog, we hope you gain a better understanding of industrial equipment, the care it requires, and related topics.
Thread gages play a critical role in the operation of industrial equipment. They can also be easy to overlook though when it comes time for maintenance or care, likely because most industrial equipment has much more complex or larger parts that your workers will pay attention to first. Thread gages that go bad though could affect your entire operation so you do have an incentive to make sure your gages last for as long as possible. To that end, here are some tips that might help you get more longevity out of these important devices.
Be Aware of the Temperature at All Times
Thread gages are designed to be incredibly precise when used properly, but it's important to remember that thread gages are made from metal and that metal can expand or contract. If you expose your thread gages to a temperature extreme either while the equipment is in operation or while storing unused gages, this could lead to a future problem. If the metal in the thread gages expands or contracts too much, this will lead to your gage being far less precise. Keep an eye on the temperature in any room or area where a thread gage is located and either move the gage or change the temperature as needed.
Coat with Wax for Lubrication
Hopefully, you realize that all of your complex industrial equipment is only as good as the lubrication for its moving parts. Thread gages need proper lubrication as well to ensure continued precision and efficiency and to keep problems like corrosion at bay. Most seasoned users of thread gages lean on peel-able wax coatings which are placed over the thread gage to protect it while the equipment is in operation. Periodically inspect your wax or another source of lubrication and adjust as needed.
Regular Cleaning is Key
Even with your wax lubrication also serving as a barrier that can keep dirt at bay, thread gages can acquire dirt or debris over time. But every time even a bit of dirt gets into the thread gage, it will potentially put the device's precision at risk. Shut down your equipment and make sure your thread gages are properly cleaned at least once a month or more often for frequent use cases.
If you want your thread gages to continue doing a great job now and in the future, regular maintenance and cleaning are key. Contact a thread gage supplier today for more information.