Regular preventative maintenance and a supply of inexpensive critical parts are the essentials to keeping a well running RTO unit from stopping production or even catastrophic failure. These items are relatively inexpensive, especially when compared to loss of production or major component replacement.
Are You Ready?
The first essential step in readiness to ward off or address oxidizer failure is the identification of a competent, reliable service provider — one possessing the experience and manpower to assist you in a clutch situation. The company should be service-oriented and have a track record of successfully completing repairs and rebuilds.
A look at redundant systems, burners, fans, etc., can be completed and assessed on a cost-benefit basis. Isolation transformers to protect high-value and critical electric and electronic components can be inexpensive insurance in the event of lightning strikes or power surges. Ask your RTO’s service provider for a list of spare parts. Items such as PLC cards, actuators, and thermocouples are inexpensive to keep on hand.
At large facilities with extensive equipment, spare parts might include fans, drives, and burners. Internal insulation is also inexpensive and a good tool to keep on-hand. If your facility is part of a multi-plant network, a central list of available long lead or expensive components can helpful in the event that they are required for an urgent, critical repair.
“Another essential component of any plan is the operating manuals and drawings.”
During your RTO’s next inspection, ask for a quick walk around with the oxidizer expert to identify any potential equipment challenges. This should include the ductwork and dampers bringing process air to the RTO. Items may not require action, but simply closer monitoring to detect any degradation in materials or performance.
Another essential component of any plan is the operating manuals and drawings. In any rapid response situation, these are critical. If your facility operates an older unit, it may be prudent to copy the pertinent information and provide it to the engineering and service professionals at your designated RTO company. This, in tandem with modem access to your PLC/controls, can be a significant time saver when attempting to diagnose a problem.
Who to Call
Contact information for your RTO service company and local contractors should be displayed prominently. Contractors should include electrical, mechanical, and ductwork. Unexpected downtime never occurs at a good time, so it pays to be ready.
As a company built on service, NESTEC can assess or repair your RTO or TO under both normal conditions and in an emergency. Our professional team would be pleased to speak with you about your oxidizer and its requirements.
Office: 610.323.7670
Jim Nester, CEO: jnester@nestecinc.com
Rodney Pennington, Vice President of Special Projects: rpennington@nestecinc.com
William Holden, Aftermarket & Service Manager: wholden@nestecinc.com
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