Even the best beveling tool will eventually need to be upgraded or replaced with a newer model. How do you determine when it is time for you to replace your system?
Of course, that question assumes you have a beveling tool in the first place. If you are still using hand grinders you should consider upgrading to a beveling system. Any job that requires a high level of consistency in beveling operations should be done by an automated system that ensures uniformity, both within a finished part and over a large number of similar parts.
For work that requires high precision and has a high cost of failure – for example, welds on high-pressure vessels or continuous pipeline work where rework is extremely costly – a beveling tool will pay for itself in prevention costs.
Let’s assume that you already have a beveling machine, and it has worked well for you for years. Why would you want to upgrade it? Here are a few possible reasons.
Expanded Capability – Does your current beveler have limitations that are costing you new business opportunities? Perhaps your current pipe beveling machine has diameter limitations, or your automated plate beveler isn’t capable of handling specialty bevels, unusual piece sizes, or alternate metal compositions that new customers require.
A new beveling tool might be considered an investment that can pay off in a higher customer volume, or in attracting newer customers with customized work that commands a higher price.
Throughput – If your beveling operation is slow enough that it leads to process bottlenecks, it may be worth investing in a new system that can save man-hours and allow you to use your shop staff more productively.Improved efficiency saves time, and time saved equals money saved.
Quality – Increasing scrap or rework rates may be a sign that your equipment is wearing down and unable to keep your high quality standards. If proper maintenance can’t solve the problem, consider a new beveling tool.
Maintenance Costs –If the downtime is increasing on your system, or it is increasingly difficult to calibrate it to maintain performance? Downtime is just another form of money, and it can pile up quickly.
Precision – Does the precision and reliability of your beveling tools still meet the specifications guaranteed when you bought them? As parts wear out, process capability will eventually degrade. If you are having trouble meeting job specifications, it is time for an upgrade.
Safety and Environmental Concerns –Newer beveling tools are designed with greater safety controls to shield operators from process dusts, potentially toxic fumes, and physical harm.
If accidents or near-accidents are on the rise, or your operators are not being sufficiently protected, you should upgrade your equipment. Not only does this save you from potential OSHA workplace violations, it is the right thing to do.
Even if you are satisfied with your current beveling system, it is a good idea to check with vendors periodically to look at the newest technology available. You may be missing out on a beveling machine that can expand your capabilities, save you money, and make your work environment safer.
For further information, contact Saar-Hartmetall at (859) 331-8770 or by e-mail at contact@saarusa.com. Saar-Hartmetall would like to help you review your needs and match you up with the best state-of-the-art beveling tools from the quality Gerima line of products.
Invest in a new beveling tool before your existing tool causes any expensive problems. Don’t find out through racking up dissatisfied customers or losing out on new business that you should have upgraded your beveling equipment years ago.