Vacuum Excavator Truck Reviews

Vacuum Excavator Truck

If you’re in the market for a vacuum excavator truck, chances are you’ll have a few questions for your future supplier. Like what’s the tank capacity? And how versatile is the unit? Here we take you through a review of one of Australia’s most prominent vacuum excavator truck suppliers – Vermeer. How good are these guys in the vacuum excavation game and what can they offer contractors and businesses?

Vermeer Vacuum truck – how do they stack up against the competition?

First of all, we should mention that Vermeer is one of the market leaders in the vacuum excavation business – providing quality services to contractors for many years. But that doesn’t mean they’re alone in the market. The likes of Vacvator and various online marketplaces will all turn in solid results – boasting a wide range of trenches excavation. Dig a little deeper and a lot of the dealerships and suppliers are actually renting or selling Vermeer equipment as part of their premium range.

So why not go to the source?

That’s exactly the question every contractor and business should be asking themselves. There are huge benefits of bypassing the mass dealership and getting a quote directly from the suppliers themselves. Here’s how Vermeer stacks up.

Emphasis on productivity

Part of the Vermeer vacuum truck ethos appears to be their commitment to getting the most out of your equipment while you’ve got boots on the ground. Talk to any salesperson and they’ll run you through why their Vacuum Excavator Trucks are built to increase water pump capacity and generally give you better excavation power. So what is actually making Vermeer vac trucks worth their while? Here are a few things to consider:

  • Vermeer vacuum trucks do have excellent pumps and highly superior blower systems allowing faster and more accurate work.
  • Compact design. Vermeer really does put an emphasis on making their systems versatile and easily manoeuvrable.
  • Vermeer’s operator comfort and safety is one of the highest in the industry. With a fast-evolving industry you’ll want to find a supplier willing to stay focused on the needs of the people using the machinery.

And versatility?

For those wanting an easy skid-tow solution and want to forgo the clumsy truck ordeal – Vermeer has an excellent range of smaller versatile vac units that appeal to utility contractors, irrigation specialists, and anyone who isn’t using the machine every few days. These smaller units are perfect for smaller projects requiring less run-time.

What about support and servicing?

When you’re investing in new equipment – whether you’re the one using or leasing it out – you’re going to need to think about servicing and maintenance options. The ongoing costs of servicing should be factored into your budget – and this is where Vermeer comes through with excellent after-sales and training support. If you’re still tossing up between suppliers – it can come down to the money, warranty, and ongoing relationship with your supplier.

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Louise B. Delia

5 Maintenance Tips for Your Hydraulic Press

Hydraulic Press

Whether you’re in manufacturing, ceramics, or in the business of building aircraft, chances are you’re using a hydraulic press every day. This mechanical machine has become integral to so many industries, from sword making to refrigerators and electrical parts – a good deal of daily items wouldn’t exist without them. No doubt if you own or run a hydraulic press, you’ll know the importance of keeping it in optimal condition.

The benefits of preventative maintenance

Preventative maintenance is fixing the problem before it becomes an issue. Press operators will be the first to tell you that this kind of maintenance is the key to having a successful day on the job, but this goes for all hydraulic equipment. Whether you’re in construction, agriculture, or electronics, the benefits of preventative maintenance are three-fold.

  • Less equipment downtime. Getting to the problem before it gets to you will decrease machine downtime and boost productivity.
  • Longer machine life. Preventing issues from arising during runtime will extend machine life over the long term.
  • Improved safety. Fulfil your obligations under the Work Health and Safety Act by providing a safe workplace – improving, and optimising maintenance techniques and processes will mean less chance of injury on the job.

Hydraulic press maintenance tips

A press operator will be quick to tell you that not all hydraulic presses are the same – and it’s true: different machines require different kinds of maintenance depending on how they’re made and what they do. It’s important to carry out maintenance as soon as something doesn’t look or sound right. Abnormal vibrations or sounds should all warrant a check over. With that in mind, here are 5 key tips on how to maintain your hydraulic press.

  1. Check the oil

 

Oil is key to the running of the hydraulic press, without it – nothing works. Make sure it’s properly topped up. Check the machine manual or oil tag for the right grade. You’ll also want to make sure your oil is clean. Dirty oil is a common cause of press malfunction and can reduce the machine’s life dramatically. Oil sampling should be done at least once a year to determine the quality and lubricity.

  1. Monitor the oil temperature

 

Oil must be at the correct operating temperature for proper use. If it’s not cool enough, the oil won’t have the right viscosity to ensure moving parts aren’t rubbing or grating against each other. Ensure the oil is cool enough by checking the radiator and cleaning built-up dirt and dust. Clean airflow in and around the machine is key to ensuring proper function.

  1. Watch out for leaks

 

Check for leaks around the press ram, valve seats, hose fittings, and hydraulic lines on a regular basis. Leaks are usually the first sign that something is wrong internally. If you discover a leak, make fixing it a priority.

  1. Monitor the pressure

 

A press in working condition should build up pressure in a relatively short amount of time – roughly 0.5 to 1 second. If it takes any longer than this, or you notice a delay, stop work, and inspect immediately. More often than not it’ll be a pump related issue, but be sure to give the whole machine a once over. Inspect the motor and relief valve if the pressure continues to be slow.

  1. Check the electronics

 

Usually, the first issue operators will come across are coils that are nearing the end of their lifecycle. Install a cycle counter to give an accurate reading of how many strokes they’ve done. Replacing coils before they go can save hours of labour and improve machine runtime. Beware of any frayed or loose wiring as this can cause issues if not properly capped or re-wired.

Don’t leave it to chance: book a professional service

One of the hardest things is finding the time to get all this done. When it comes to productivity and efficiency – ensuring minimum downtime and maximum functionality is key. If you’re either too busy or unsure about how to service your hydraulic press, don’t wait for the inevitable. Book a service for your hydraulic press in Australia with a professional maintenance team today.

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Louise B. Delia

Proper Care of Industrial Blenders

Industrial Blenders

Your industrial mixer is crucial for blending your ingredients. When taken care of, they can last for years. If you don’t take care of them, they can wear out much quicker. If you set aside time for regular maintenance, you can end up saving thousands since you won’t have to replace your machines as often. Here are some maintenance tips to keep in mind.

Check Components for Lubrication

You should regularly check your mixer’s moving components for lubrication. This is a crucial thing to check. A lot of the moving parts are costly to replace. To reduce replacement costs, you should regularly check the reducer, drive, and shaft bearings’ moving parts and lubricate them. Most people do this once per month.

Maintain the Seal

Seals contain ingredients in the tub and protect the shaft. If seals are worn, materials can escape, and shafts can shift. Many different types of seals are common in industrial blenders, so you must check the factory recommendations for maintenance tips.

Check the Discharge Gate Operation

Unlike a vertical food mixer, these blenders have a discharge gate that can get ingredients and foreign objects lodged in them and prevent them from closing all the way. Therefore, you need to check the limit switch and ensure the gate stays completely closed when in use. Also, keep an eye on it when in use and make sure it is functioning properly. If your gate doesn’t open all the way, ingredients will stay in the mixer. Meanwhile, if it doesn’t close all the way, materials can spill out.

While it may seem time-consuming, it is a good idea to set aside time to perform regular mixer maintenance. This will save you from having to pay to replace or repair a mixer. In the end, it is better to perform these basic maintenance tips.…

Louise B. Delia

Everything You Should Know About Industrial Packaging Solutions

Industrial Packaging

Similarly, as the name suggests, industrial packaging will help you protect, store, and a ship-wide array of items and goods depending on your needs.

In most cases, this particular type of packaging is used right after production directly on site, but also you will be able to use it as a form of a supply chain.

Keep in mind that manufacturers use this particular type of packaging for sensitive goods that have to be stable to reduce breakage chances in most cases. On the other hand, it could be used for bulky or hazardous products with sensitive components.

They are common in numerous industries, including machinery manufacturers, technology, automotive, and others that wish to protect their goods from vibrations and excessive humidity.

Remember that packaging solutions is the term that describes heavy-duty, specialized, and customized packaging that will provide you additional protection, especially in the case of distribution.

You should also know that packaging is the process of preserving, protecting, marketing, and shipping various products. All of them feature similar elements and factors that will provide a barrier and protect particular products.

It is vital to understand that having sturdy and robust packaging is the best way to protect your products on-site, which is an important consideration.

You can find a wide array of standards for industrial packaging, or you can choose the customized ones depending on your needs and preferences.

Differences Between Average and Industrial Packaging

We can differentiate numerous differences between industrial and average forms of packaging, including:

  • It is sufficient for handling hazardous equipment
  • It is customized based on particular preferences
  • The main goal is to protect the goods during the storage and shipping
  • It meets international standards
  • You can fully customize it to meet your design needs and requirements

As you can see from the points we have mentioned here, industrial boxes and packaging have a single purpose of protecting your goods or any other specific product you wish to store or ship further.

Of course, you will be able to customize it based on your preferences and other factors such as protection goals, among other things.

Since some goods and products require additional protection, you need to be proactive and find ways to do it before losing a significant amount of money.

You should check here to learn more about labeling and packaging standards that will help you choose the right ones for your particular business.

Perfect for Sensitive Goods

We have mentioned above that the primary goal of packaging is protection, primarily because it will ensure product safety throughout the shipping process.

At the same time, you will be able to preserve it in storage by using sealant and other options hermetically depending on your requirements.

The type of packaging depends on numerous factors, including:

  • Weight
  • Thickness
  • Security
  • Moisture levels
  • Durability

Therefore, we can easily say that you should find the packaging option that will meet your goods’ needs so that you can reduce the chances of issues that may happen.

Remember that most engineers and designers will consider all the points mentioned above when creating a customized option for your production business.

Since they have to consider every single aspect, you can rest assured because as a result, you will get the proper protection that will comply with international standards. That is the best way to add a security layer and protect the specific products you wish to ship.

Things to Know About Materials

Keep in mind that customized packaging depends on numerous factors, which is why you should choose a material that will stand the test of time and protect your goods, among other things.

Therefore, industrial packaging materials include:

  • Fiberboard, cardboard, paperboard
  • Wood board, plywood, wooden crates, derail board, and many more
  • Stainless steel
  • Polypropylene
  • Plastic

If you wish to store and ship industrial goods, you need to find the best combination of materials to ensure your goods’ overall safety. In most cases, you can combine the materials we have mentioned above to get the best results possible.

For instance, you can combine stainless steel sheets with wood blocks or plastic with corrugated cardboard, among other things. Generally, you need to determine the best combination possible that will help you protect the product.

However, remember that every product comes with unique combination, which means that you should consult with professionals to help you along the way.

Customized Options

You can find a wide array of customized options that will help you present your message or create a brand to boost awareness as you distribute and ship your goods.

We are talking about customizable options that include stainless boxes, plastic covers, pouches and pallets, and many more.

The main goal of customization is to create a perfect packaging that will fit your product with ease, provide security for your goods, and, finally, …

Louise B. Delia

How to Unclog a Drain

Unclog

When the toilet starts bubbling or your sink won’t drain, your first move might be to search for “plumbers near me” and hope someone can get to your house quickly. Although calling a plumber is always the best choice, sometimes you just can’t wait a day or two to fix the problem. In this situation, it can be extremely helpful to know a few tips about unclogging drains so you don’t have an overflowing toilet out of order for more than a few hours.

Any Drain

Although the plunger has been made synonymous with bathroom plumbing problems, it can actually be a handy tool in any room of your house. If you have a mysterious clog that’s preventing water from draining, the first step is to take a plunger to the drain and see if it solves the problems. This goes for toilets, sinks, and tubs; a plunger can take on all types of drains.

Sink

If your sink is clogged and the plunger doesn’t help, you can always take apart the U-shaped pipe underneath to see if you can locate the clog. Make sure to place a bucket under the pipe when you unscrew it so any water left in it won’t fall straight to your floor. Use a flashlight to look inside both ends, and if you see any debris or the source of the clog, you can easily clear it out and replace the pipe.

Bathtub

Long hairs love to nestle into your tub drain, which means you may need to use a snake to shake them loose and clear the blockage. You can get simple snakes from most home improvement stores that might ease the problem enough until a plumber can completely clear it.

If a plumber is a few days away, don’t wait to regain use of your house. Try these tips to clear drains!…

Louise B. Delia

3 Systems to Test Regularly at Your Company

Test

As a business owner, you know that you can’t just purchase equipment and then assume that it will work forever. Instead, you need to perform regular tests for quality, especially with these types of equipment.

1. Pipes

Pipes carry water around your building, and they also may transport chemicals and steam, depending on your line of work. These must be regularly inspected for leaks, which quickly cause devastating damage. Additionally, you should have them undergo a proof pressure test at least once a year. If you’re looking for a proof pressure test definition, it’s a process in which a professional uses water and gases to ensure that a part is still sound.

2. Fire Alarms

You cannot afford for your fire alarm to be out of business. The best fire alarms call the fire department as soon as they detect smoke. This is particularly important if you do not have someone at your office around the clock. Test the alarm every three months, and replace its batteries every six months. If someone accidentally bumps into an alarm and breaks it, have it replaced immediately.

3. Water Purification Systems

Every building that your company owns should have running water, both for drinking and hygiene purposes. However, you need to make sure that the water you receive from your local treatment plant is clean and free of lead and other heavy metals. Once a year, have an inspector test your water to ensure that it is safe to drink. If necessary, install filtration systems on the top of each faucet and provide jugs of drinking water for your employees.

To make sure your company continues to operate at its most productive level, you must take care of your equipment. This means installing it properly and then testing all your systems regularly. That way, you can catch minor problems before they become major expenses.…

Louise B. Delia

An Introduction to Combustible Dust and the Industries that Produce it

Workplace hazards come in so many forms that it is difficult to keep track of them all in a manufacturing facility, but we need to be able to do that all the same. Fortunately, not every health and environmental hazard is common to every industry, so a thorough knowledge of the specific sector that one is working in should be sufficient in keeping everyone connected to the facility safe. Our focus today is going to be on combustible dust, because it deserves more attention than it gets most of the time.

Combustible Dust

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A Basic Introduction to Combustible Dust

Theoretically and practically, any fine or coarse dust which can catch fire upon ignition can be considered as an example of combustible dust. It should be noted that combustible dust can often be explosive in nature, although that is not a mandatory criterion for the particles to be classified as such. Not to be confused with gaseous ignition hazards such as methane, all combustible dust is solid in nature.

Examples of Combustible Dust

As per the official definition explained above, combustible dust particles can be generated from nearly all organic and certain inorganic industrial products. Examples of core materials that produce the ignitable dust particles include, but are most certainly not limited to:

  • Wood
  • Coal
  • Rubber
  • Fabric
  • Eggs
  • Starch
  • Dust and pesticides from agricultural produce (grains, sugar, etc.)
  • Sulphur
  • Certain variants of plastic

Industries that Produce Hazardous Combustible Dust

The list would be too long if we were to include every industry that produces at least some degree of ignitable, solid dust as a byproduct. Instead of stretching the list unnecessarily, we will focus on industries that produce dangerously combustible dust particles the most. Consider the following examples as a guiding reference above all else:

Agriculture – Farms, farming fields, animal farms, granaries, food processing plants, agricultural produce packaging facilities, the pesticide industry, etc. all create ignitable dust

Pharmaceuticals and Chemical Plants – From the regular OTC meds and controlled prescription drugs, to industrial-grade cleaners and household disinfectants; most pharmaceutical products create massive amounts of combustible dust as byproducts during manufacturing. In fact, these companies also produce the highest amount of explosive dust.

Metal Processing – Magnesium, zinc, carbon, iron and most other metals are incendiary, so it is only natural for the dust from these processing units to also be highly combustible as a result.

Preventing Fires and Explosions in Industrial Facilities and Farms

It is difficult, but not impossible to control both the spread and on-spot ignition of combustible and explosive dust particles from manufacturing/processing units. There are several measures of course, but the most important equipment is a combustible dust vacuum. These industrial vacuum cleaners are specially designed to safely collect all types of combustible dust particles before they can spread or ignite. The combustible dust vacuum is now considered to be a mandatory device across multiple industries that produce the aforementioned particles in the highest quantity.

It is hoped that more companies in these segments will acknowledge the explosive dangers that combustible dust poses to the surrounding environment and the production units themselves. With the proper precautions in place, it is possible to avoid tragic and financially disastrous accidents from either happening in the first place, or at least bringing down their impact and frequency to a great extent.…

Louise B. Delia

The Scientific Side of Permanent Markers

The Scientific Side

For a lot of professionals who use permanent markers or “Sharpie,” one of the biggest questions is how this thing works. Why are these permanent markers staying permanently? The science behind this technological marvel, usually overlooked, involves three main ingredients: resin, carrier, and colorant. With the right combinations, these ingredients make “Sharpie” or permanent marker work.

Definition

While its definition sounds pretty obvious, it is not. Usually, these markers need to meet two qualifications to be considered as a permanent marker: it needs to use pigments or dyes, and it needs to adhere to all surfaces, as well as water-resistant.

According to experts, writing using this device can be expected to last at least three to four months, and several years at most. Although people might use this every day, there is a big chance that people are hard-pressed to explain how it works. This device contains common ingredients that make up regular markers.

These components dictate how the device interact to deliver a clean and reliable line. Always remember that its lasting effect is usually a misnomer as most devices labeled as everlasting are not light-fast unless it is marked explicitly by manufacturers as archival markers.

How inks are made? Check out this site for more info.

What do these things consist of?

These pens are hallowed plastic tubes that are airtight, with a single opening at its tip. These tubes encase a long stick of sponge-like and porous material, which sticks slightly out of its opening (also called the tip). The absorbent material inside is saturated with permanent ink as it drains or evaporates from the exposed tip. Its siphoning effect will draw the fluid from the inside, out of its tip. The ink is composed of three ingredients: resin, solvent, and colorant.

Colorant

Colorants are pigments or dyes that give these fluids its unique color. Whether pink, yellow, neon, red, blue, black, or any other hue, colorants is what we see when we look at lines made by the device. The main difference between pigments and dyes is that pigments are usually water-insoluble or a non-polar solvent, while dyes are water-soluble.

The pigment is a non-polar solvent unless it is ground to very fine dust. Because of the powder’s property, they are usually the favored colorant choice for these devices, given their resistance to humidity dissolution and other environmental agents.

Solvent

This is the key to making an excellent broad, felt-tip pens; without the solvent to transport and dissolve colorant, as well as the ink resin through the small sponge, these pens will not work. Although water is a polar solvent, these solvents need to be non-polar to break down resins and colorants, which are usually non-polar.

Traditionally, manufacturers use xylene, but because of health hazards, they switched to lesser toxic component like isopropanol and ethanol, since children are starting to use these items for school-related activities. Once the liquid ink us applied to the surface, solvents automatically evaporate, leaving only the resin and colorant.

Resin

These are glue-like polymer. Inks made of resin make sure that the colorant sticks to the surface once the it evaporates. If the ink is only made of solvent and colorant, the colorant will turn to powder and fall on the surface as soon as the solvent component evaporated or dried. While ink made of this component is naturally very sticky, the solvent will keep it fluid and free inside the sealed plastic tube.

Differences

The difference between non-permanent and permanent market rest on its resin component; broad, felt-tip pen has resins that non-polar. It does not dissolve in water. That is why, if the ink with a non-polar component gets on a surface, it will stay there permanently. But if you use chemicals like acetone, a non-polar solvent, instead of water, it will dissolve the resin and remove the mark.

On the other hand, non-permanent ones use ink made with resin that is water-soluble or readily dissolves in water. Not only that, but permanent markers may also use specific dyes and pigments that are not water-soluble or do not dissolve easily in water.

Removal

While removing these ink sounds like very contradicting, there are ways to remove it. Non-solvent chemicals like acetone, as well as alcohol, will remove it from both porous and non-porous materials. A lot of household items like hair spray or deodorant contain alcohol and can be used to remove these inks.

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Louise B. Delia