Heavy-Equipment Repair: Three Tips for Making Sure the Failed Metal Parts Were Removed Properly and Efficiently
Posted on: 22 July 2016
When heavy equipment malfunctions or fails at the work site, you can perform the necessary repairs without severely disrupting overall operations by removing the failed metal parts on-site. If you don't have the experience or the tools necessary to remove the failed metal parts, call a company like Florida TRUCK & Trailer CO that specializes in heavy-equipment repair. Here are three ways you can determine whether they did a great job.
Use of Plasma Cutters Instead of Oxyfuel Torches
If you're going to be paying a lot for labor, you'll want to make sure that the failed metal parts were removed as efficiently as possible. To do so, the repair company will need to have the appropriate tools and equipment at their disposal. In particular, you'll want to make sure that the repair company uses plasma cutters instead of oxyfuel torches to remove the failed metal parts. Plasma cutters are able to cut through steel that is 1.25-inch thick within 1.5 seconds, while this would take an oxyfuel torch about 20 seconds.
In addition, plasma cutters can cut through just about any type of metal. Oxyfuel torches cannot cut through aluminum or stainless steel.
Metal Removal Beyond Where the Defect Was Located
If the repairs are needed to remove defects like cracks, it is crucial that the heavy-equipment repair company removes metal beyond where the defect was located in order to make sure that the structural integrity of the metal is preserved. This is especially true for cracks, as the area around the cracked region will have been compromised. If sufficient metal is not removed, the metal parts will continue to crack when the equipment is in use.
Smoothing the Edges of the Cut
To ensure that the replacement part will fit properly or can be welded on properly, the edges where the metal was removed need to be smoothed out. Rough edges are difficult to connect, and the replacement part will not fit properly as a result. Before the repairman leaves, take a look at the edges to see whether they look smooth or not. Consider running your finger down the edge to feel for minor cracks or bumps.
Conclusion
Getting the failed metal part removed is just the first step. Once the defective piece has been removed, you will need to get the replacement part welded on. Most repair companies will provide both services in order to help you save time and money.
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