Extend machine uptime instead of investing in new equipment

Many bakeries today face the same challenge: new machines quickly cost €25,000 to €30,000 or more. At the same time, energy prices, raw material costs, and personnel expenses are rising. The alternative is to extend the lifespan of existing equipment. With a clear maintenance plan, suitable spare parts, and strategic upkeep, equipment can often be operated reliably for significantly longer.

Why machines wear out faster than before

Spiral mixers like those fromDiosna, bread roll presses fromFortunaor bread facilities ofWP KemperThey often run for 6 to 8 hours a day. Vibrations, heavy dough loads, and temperature fluctuations take their toll on all mechanical parts. Even robust machines eventually show signs of wear.

• Ball bearings in the drive begin to squeak or develop play (Ball bearing category)
• V-belts stretch and can break (V-belt overview)
• Conveyor and working belts lose tension or corrugation (WP Multimatic Blue tape)
• Controls become slower to respond or fail (Controls Category)

Early detection of these signs of wear allows for timely action. The cost of replacement parts is often less than 5 percent of the price of a new part. Otherwise, a failed bearing or belt can put the machine out of service for days.

Planned maintenance schedule for longer service life

Check-ups every 3 to 6 months

• Check the V-belt
  
  Replace immediately if there are cracks or frayed edges. Typical replacement parts:adjustable clamping leversorLocking lever.
• Check seals
  
  Defective seals prevent oil leaks and contamination. Replacement parts:Flange gasketsorO-rings.
• Testing controls
  
  Check pushbuttons, emergency stop switches, and start/stop elements. Examples:Start/Stop Button King,Emergency Stop Button Diosna.

Check-up every 12 months

• Check ball bearings
  Check for unusual noises and play. Replace immediately if necessary.
• Conveyor and working belts
  Check for cracks, wear or detachment.
• Gear oil and lubrication
  Check and top up the gearbox regularly.

Check-up every 2 to 3 years

• Check drive components
  Friction wheels and gears such asDiosna friction wheelExchange in time.
• hydraulic system
  Check hydraulic hoses, e.g.Hydraulic hose set WP Multimatic.

Use spare parts strategically

Many bakeries extend the lifespan of their machines by using specialized spare parts. Categories such asControls,bandsorDrive technologyhelp to quickly find the right parts.

If a part is ambiguous, you can use aSpare parts requestThis saves time and ensures production capability.

Conclusion

Extending machine uptime saves costs, reduces production downtime, and enables better planning. Those who take maintenance seriously, replace worn parts in a timely manner, and use spare parts selectively ensure reliable operation of their equipment.Kneading machines,Dough dividerorBread roll pressesThey benefit directly from targeted care.

Further information on the decision between repair and new purchase can be found in the article.Why more and more bakeries are opting for repair instead of new purchases.