No Time for Downtime in the Forest Industry

Downtime in the forest industry means...

• Stopped production.
• Delayed and lost jobs.
• Idle employees.
• Disrupted supply chains.
• Lost profits.

Nobody has time for downtime.

The number one cause of downtime is, of course, downed equipment.

So let’s talk about the three common problems that cause broken equipment.

If your team can prevent broken equipment issues by recognizing and addressing these common problems… you’ll reduce downtime in no time.

1.) Inconsistent Equipment Wear Rate

Your machine can encounter problems when its parts wear inconsistently. This can include double strand rakeback conveyors wearing at a different rate. In addition, abnormal wear characteristics can occur from running chains with the narrow end forward versus the open end forward.

2.) Sprocket Interaction with Chain

Equipment downtime can result from improper sprocket interaction with the chain whether you’re in the middle of log handling, debarking, sawing, sorting, chipping, pelletizing, pulping, or paper roll handling.

3.) Conveyor Misalignment or Interference

In forestry, it’s common for equipment to get knocked around. Loose material or other foreign debris can interfere with the operation of your conveyor, jostling it or causing it to become misaligned.

How to Prevent Forest Industry Conveyor Downtime

Contributing to these three equipment issues are common mistakes we see forestry companies make to save a dime and save time: 

1. Infrequent maintenance checks
2. Buying subpar products. 
3. Doing a quick fix instead of the right fix. 

These mistakes feel great in the short-term, but they can significantly cost your business in the long run.

You can prevent equipment breakdowns that result in downtime by investing in quality products like Webster welded steel mill chains and drag chains, as well as vibrating conveyors that can get the job done efficiently and safely.

Once you have the right equipment in place, the next most important step is to establish a preventative maintenance routine for all of your equipment. Webster Industries provides best practices and preventative maintenance training so that you can catch issues with your equipment before they affect your business’ bottom line.

The Webster engineering team is always available to help you troubleshoot any conveyor issues you’re facing.

When something breaks down, make Webster your first call, at (800) 243-9327. We’ll ensure your production line keeps moving longer and more efficiently with the best conveyor and chain equipment in place.

And, we are available 24/7 - 365 days a year. Because we know downtime for your business is NOT an option.

To learn more about Webster's innovative solutions for the forestry industry, check out this info on the OSB Combo Belt.

Give Webster Industries a call today or contact us now to keep your machinery rolling.