Winterizing metalworking equipment is helpful for its operating efficiency. Metalworking machines are exposed to the elements, including snow, rain, wind, and freezing temperatures. Over time, these conditions can lead to rusting parts or other damage that may call for expensive repairs or replacements. To prevent this from happening, it’s important to winterize your metalworking equipment before the cold weather sets in. Here are a few tips on how to winterize your metalworking equipment:
Inspect Components
Metalworking machines contain various components that must be inspected for wear, corrosion, and other damages. Replace any worn or damaged parts during winterization to keep your machine running efficiently year-round.
Make Minor Repairs
Repair any parts of your metalworking equipment that are worn or damaged. It’s important to make the necessary repairs before storing them away for the winter as this may help prevent further damage and make sure that your equipment is ready to go come springtime.
Clean All Parts
Before winterizing, it is important to clean the exterior and interior of your equipment. This may help make sure that no dirt or debris builds up in the components during the cold winter months.
Change Lubricants
Metalworking machines are often lubricated with oil, grease, and other substances. It is important to check and change these lubricants during winterization, as old or dirty lubricants can freeze, leading to breakdowns and damage.
Use Protective Covers
Metalworking machines often have protective covers and guards that help keep dirt, debris, and other contaminants out of the equipment. During winterization, make sure these covers are securely in place to protect against ice and snow entering the system.
Check Electrical Contacts
Metalworking machines typically contain several electrical components and wiring. It is important to check all the electrical contacts in your machine during winterization, as any problems could result in costly repairs or system failure.
Test Safety Features
Metalworking equipment often contains safety features such as emergency stop buttons and overload protection. During winterization, make sure these features are in working order to potentially reduce the risk of accidents or injury while using the machine.
Install Warmers
Metalworking machines can sometimes be sensitive to cold temperatures, so consider installing warmers on any components that may freeze during winter. This may help prevent breakdowns and other issues.
Check Seals
Metalworking machines often contain internal seals that you should check for wear or damage during winterization. Replacing worn seals may help prevent leaks, which could lead to costly repairs in the future.
Look at Coolant Levels
Metalworking machines may sometimes rely on proper coolant levels to make sure they operate correctly. Checking coolant levels during winterization can help prevent wear due to insufficient cooling.
Check Heater Systems
Metalworking machines may contain built-in heater systems that you must check during winterization. These heaters help keep metalworking components warm, preventing them from freezing or malfunctioning in cold weather.
Get Your Metalworking Equipment Ready for Winter
Preparing your metalworking equipment for winter can be key to helping it run efficiently and safely. It may help you maintain better performance and save money in the long run by reducing maintenance costs and preventing costly repairs down the road.
