Table of Contents
The normal operation of the wood pellet machine is of paramount importance throughout the production process. In order to guarantee the efficient and stable operation of the equipment, extend its service life and reduce production costs, it is essential to implement a scientific and reasonable maintenance programme. The following section presents a detailed wood pellet machine maintenance guide.
Pre-opening inspection
Prior to the commencement of operations, it is imperative to conduct a comprehensive examination of the wood pellet machine. Such an inspection serves not only to guarantee the optimal functioning of the machinery but also to enhance its safety and prevent any potential accidents that may arise from equipment malfunction.
Check the appearance of the equipment
A meticulous examination should be conducted to ascertain whether any damage, deformation or looseness is present in the shell, feed inlet, discharge outlet and other components of the wood pellet machine. In the event of any issue being identified, it is imperative that the relevant component is either repaired or tightened in a timely manner. The intact appearance of the machine is a prerequisite for its normal operation. For instance, damage to the shell may impair the sealing of the machine, resulting in dust leakage or affecting the heat dissipation performance of the machine. In the event of loose inlets and outlets, there is a risk of material leakage, which may have an adverse impact on the production environment and productivity.
Checking the electrical system
It is imperative to ascertain that the power cord is securely attached and that all electrical components, including switches and buttons, are functioning optimally. It is imperative to ascertain that the electrical system is devoid of any short circuits, leakage and other potential safety hazards. The electrical system constitutes a vital component of the pellet machine. Regular inspection of the electrical system can ensure the normal startup and operation of the equipment. Additionally, it is imperative to ensure the electrical system is safeguarded against potential fire hazards and other safety-related incidents that could result from a failure in the electrical supply. For instance, it is advisable to ascertain whether the wires are fractured and aged, whether the switches are responsive and dependable, and whether the electrical components are subjected to excessive temperatures, emit an odour, or manifest any other anomalous behaviour.
Checking the drive train
It is essential to ascertain whether the belt, chain, gears and other transmission components are adequately tensioned, and whether there is any evidence of wear, damage or looseness. In the event of any issue, it is imperative that the relevant component is duly adjusted or replaced in a timely manner. The transmission system represents the power transmission component of the pellet machine, and its optimal functioning is essential for the equipment’s overall productivity and stability. The regular inspection of the transmission system enables the early detection of any potential issues, thereby preventing the occurrence of equipment downtime due to transmission component failure. For instance, it is advisable to ascertain whether the belt displays the requisite elasticity, whether the chain exhibits elongation and wear, and whether the gears display missing teeth and wear.
Checking the lubrication system
It is essential to ascertain whether the lubricating oil in each lubricating component is adequate and of an appropriate quality. In the event of insufficient lubricant, it is imperative that it be replenished in a timely manner. Similarly, if the quality of the oil is substandard, it must be replaced without delay. It can be reasonably deduced that a properly functioning lubrication system will result in a reduction of wear and tear on the equipment in question, thus extending the overall service life of the equipment. The regular inspection of the lubrication system is an effective method of ensuring that the various components of the equipment are adequately lubricated, thereby enhancing the operational efficiency and stability of the equipment. For example, an inspection should be conducted to ascertain whether the lubricant in the bearings, gears and other components is sufficient, whether the oil is transparent and whether impurities have been introduced.
Preventive measures to be taken in the granulation process
It is of the utmost importance to closely monitor the operational status of the wood pellet machine and to adhere to the prescribed operational methodology. This will facilitate the timely identification of potential issues, preventing their further exacerbation and ensuring the safe and optimal functioning of the equipment.
Observation of equipment operating status
It is imperative that the operational status of the equipment be meticulously monitored throughout its operation. This entails a comprehensive observation of the equipment’s performance, encompassing auditory, vibratory, and thermal parameters, to ascertain its continued normalcy. In the event of an anomaly being identified, the machine should be terminated without delay to facilitate an inspection. Following the rectification of the fault, the machine should be permitted to resume operation. The timely observation of the operational status of the equipment allows for the identification of latent hazards in a timely manner, thereby preventing the further exacerbation of the fault. Additionally, it is of paramount importance to ensure the safe operation of the equipment, in order to prevent safety-related incidents resulting from improper utilisation. For instance, the occurrence of anomalous noise may be indicative of a malfunctioning component or a lack of secure fastening. Similarly, excessive vibration may be a consequence of an imbalance in the equipment or damage to a component. Additionally, elevated temperatures may be a result of inadequate lubrication or an overload of a component.
Observe the change in current
It is anticipated that the current pellet machine granulation process will undergo a change. The principal reasons for this are as follows: The impact of raw material attributes, including wood type, density, hardness, and moisture content, varies. The presence of high-density, high-hardness, or high-moisture content in the raw material can lead to an increase in motor load and a rise in current. Equipment-related factors, such as differences in pellet machine power and performance across various models, as well as the wear and tear of moulds, clogging, and other conditions, can also influence the current. Inappropriate process parameters, such as pelleting speed, pressure and conditioning process, will also result in changes to the motor load and raw material status, which in turn affect the current. Similarly, operational factors, such as the improper speed and uniformity of feedstock, will cause fluctuations in the motor load, leading to current instability. Furthermore, process parameters such as granulation speed, pressure and tempering process will also alter the motor load and raw material status, which in turn affects the current. Operation factors, such as improper feeding speed and uniformity, will also result in fluctuations in the motor load, thus causing an unstable current.
Control of feed rate
The rate of feeding should be moderate, neither excessively rapid nor lethargic. An excessive feeding speed will result in an overload of the equipment, which will consequently reduce the lifespan of the machinery. Conversely, a slow feeding speed will impair the efficiency of the production process. Adequate control of the feeding speed is essential for ensuring the stability of the equipment and enhancing production efficiency. Additionally, the feeding speed should be adjusted according to the specific characteristics of the equipment and the raw materials in question, with the objective of optimising the operational performance of the equipment. To illustrate, if the particle size of the raw material is considerable and the humidity is elevated, the feeding speed should be moderately reduced to prevent obstruction of the equipment. Conversely, if the particle size of the raw material is diminutive and the humidity is low, the feeding speed can be moderately increased to enhance production efficiency.
Regular cleaning of equipment
It is essential to undertake regular cleaning of the accumulated materials and debris within the equipment during its operational lifespan in order to guarantee optimal functionality. It is imperative that the machine be halted prior to commencing the cleaning process, and that the utilisation of dedicated tools be employed to ensure the prevention of potential safety hazards. The regular cleaning of equipment can prevent the deterioration and obstruction of accumulated materials and debris, thereby enhancing the operational efficiency and stability of the equipment. It is also imperative to exercise caution when utilising cleaning equipment, in order to prevent mishaps resulting from inadequate cleansing procedures. For instance, when utilising compressed air or a broom to remove accumulated materials from the interior of the equipment, it is imperative to exercise caution to prevent the dispersion of dust, which can negatively impact the working environment and the well-being of the operators. Similarly, when cleansing the equipment’s knives, moulds, and other components, it is of paramount importance to ensure the prevention of injuries.
Maintenance after shutdown
The implementation of appropriate maintenance procedures following the cessation of equipment operations has the potential to extend the operational lifespan of the equipment, enhance its operational efficacy, and facilitate the transition towards the next production phase.
Cleaning equipment
Following the cessation of operation, it is imperative to undertake the removal of any accumulated materials, dust and other debris within and surrounding the machinery in a timely manner. This is essential to ensure the continued cleanliness and hygiene of the equipment. Prior to commencing the cleaning process, it is imperative that the power is first turned off. This is followed by the utilisation of compressed air, brooms and other appropriate tools for the effective removal of debris. The cleaning of equipment has the potential to extend the service life of the equipment and improve its operating efficiency. Furthermore, it is of paramount importance to maintain the cleanliness and hygiene of the equipment in order to prevent equipment failure and safety accidents resulting from the accumulation of materials, dust and other debris. For instance, the dust and debris should be removed from the shell, inlet, outlet and other parts of the equipment in order to maintain a neat and clean appearance. Furthermore, the accumulation of material inside the equipment should be cleaned up in order to prevent the equipment from being damaged by the accumulation of material, for example through abrasion or corrosion.
Inspection of wearing parts
It is recommended that the condition of the equipment’s wearing parts, including moulds, pressure rollers, blades, and so forth, be evaluated for indications of wear, tear, breakage, or deformation. In the event of any issue, it is imperative that the relevant components are replaced in a timely manner. Wear parts are integral to the functionality of the equipment, and their deterioration directly impacts the equipment’s productivity and the quality of the pellets produced. The regular inspection of wearing parts allows for the early detection of problems, thereby avoiding equipment downtime and production interruptions resulting from the failure of wearing parts. As an illustration, the wear and tear of the mould should be examined to ascertain whether there are scratches, dents and other phenomena. Similarly, the wear and tear of the pressure roller should be investigated to determine whether there is uneven wear, surface roughness and other phenomena. Furthermore, the wear and tear of the blade should be evaluated to identify whether there is a gap, a blunt edge and other phenomena.
Add lubricant
It is recommended that all lubricated parts of the equipment be lubricated in order to extend the service life of the equipment. It is essential to utilise the appropriate lubricant and adhere to the specified lubrication cycle when lubricating. The application of lubricants to equipment can serve to mitigate the effects of wear and tear, thereby enhancing the operational efficiency and stability of the equipment. Furthermore, it is essential to select appropriate lubricants and implement an effective lubrication strategy in accordance with the prescribed lubrication cycle to guarantee that all components of the equipment are adequately lubricated. For instance, the selection of an appropriate lubricant should be based on the specific components of the equipment and the prevailing operational conditions. This may entail the use of high-temperature or high-speed lubricants, among others. Furthermore, the lubrication cycle prescribed for the equipment should be adhered to, with regular lubrication of the bearings, gears, chains, and other relevant parts.
Check equipment connection parts
It is recommended that the connecting parts of the equipment, such as bolts and nuts, be examined for any indications of looseness. In the event of any issues, it is imperative that the relevant components are secured with the utmost urgency. The presence of loose connection parts in equipment may result in operational instability and, in extreme cases, may even precipitate safety incidents. The regular inspection of equipment connection parts enables the early detection of potential issues, thereby ensuring the safe operation of the equipment. As an illustration, it is recommended to inspect the bolts and nuts of the base, frame, motor, and other components of the equipment to ascertain their tightness. In the event of any looseness, it is imperative to tighten them promptly. Similarly, it is essential to examine the connections of the pipelines and valves of the equipment to ensure they are secure. In the event of any leakage, it is crucial to address it in a timely manner.
In conclusion, the maintenance of wood pellet machines is a significant undertaking that requires due diligence and attention to detail. Through the implementation of effective pre-startup inspections, the adoption of safety protocols during operation, and the implementation of post-shutdown maintenance procedures, it is possible to ensure the optimal functioning of the machine, extend its service life, enhance the quality and efficiency of the wood pellets produced, reduce production costs, and contribute to the advancement of renewable energy sources.
