Scott Lidster of Australian Earth Training provides tips to machine operators on maximising the lifespan of ground-engaging tools (G.E.T).
Ground Engaging Tools are vital components of heavy machinery, playing a crucial role in earthmoving operations across construction, mining, and other industries.
The longevity and efficiency of these tools significantly impact the overall productivity and cost-effectiveness of a project.
As such, machine operators must employ proper techniques and maintenance practices to extend the life of their G.E.T and optimise equipment performance.
Here are some essential tips for maximising the lifespan of your Ground Engaging Tools:
- Routine inspections: Conduct regular visual inspections of G.E.T components before and after each shift. Look for signs of wear, damage, or misalignment. Early detection of issues allows for timely repairs or replacements, preventing further damage and downtime.
- Proper operating techniques: Train your operators to use equipment with precision and care. Avoid excessive force, overloading, or improper use of G.E.T, which can accelerate wear and cause premature failure. Operate machinery at recommended speeds (the faster you’re going, the more friction is created. More friction = accelerated wear) and avoid harsh impacts on the ground or other objects.
Keep bucket teeth, cutting edges, and ripper points sharp and properly aligned. - Maintain sharpness: Keep bucket teeth, cutting edges, and ripper points sharp and properly aligned. Dull or worn-out G.E.T can decrease efficiency and increase fuel consumption. Keep your G.E.T sharp. If your G.E.T can be turned mid-life, do it, as this can help maintain a sharp tip. Replace worn components to ensure optimal performance and penetration in various ground conditions.
- Adjust work practices: Adapt work practices to minimise wear on G.E.T. Avoid dragging bucket teeth or cutting edges against abrasive surfaces unnecessarily. Utilise proper ground engagement techniques, such as angle and depth adjustments, to reduce friction and wear during excavation and loading tasks.
- Implement ground protection measures: Utilise wear protection solutions such as wear bars, wear plates, and protective coatings to shield G.E.T components from abrasive wear and impact damage. These preventative measures help extend the service life of G.E.T and reduce maintenance costs over time.
- Regular maintenance: Follow manufacturer- recommended maintenance schedules for lubrication, tightening, and component replacement. Keep G.E.T assemblies clean and free of debris to prevent buildup and corrosion. Proper maintenance ensures that G.E.T components operate at peak performance and remain in service for longer durations.
- Get to know G.E.T: It’s important that stakeholders (owners, maintenance, operators) are educated that not all G.E.T is the same and in a lot of incidents, bigger is not always better. If you’re going for penetration, a tip with a lean, focused profile could be what’s required. If you have low impact, abrasive conditions, perhaps a tip that’s more broad is the way to move forward. Approach your local G.E.T specialist to learn more.
By incorporating these practices into their daily operations, machine operators can significantly increase the life of their ground engaging tools, improve equipment reliability, and minimise downtime.
Investing in proactive maintenance and operator training pays off in the form of improved productivity, reduced operating costs, and increased profitability for earthmoving projects.
Australian Earth Training: Contact scott@australianearthtraining.com.au