Avoiding Landmine Repairs, Part 7

July 9, 2013
Steps a field technician should take to close out a repair.

How should a field technician close out a repair? Is it enough just to restore down equipment to service?

Consider this example: The tech responds to a downtime call for a parts feeder that's belt-driven from a 30-hp motor. Due to the smell of burnt windings, the technician replaces the motor. Since the belt has to be removed anyhow, the technician replaces the belt. The technician then aligns the motor, runs the system, conducts a vibration, tells the operator it's fixed, and then goes off to the next trouble call.

The next day, the supervisor visits the feeder and finds the old belt and some greasy rags. The tech did many things right, but left out proper cleanup. And where's the record of the repair? Omitting cleanup can cause safety issues and lead to failure from causes introduced by the tech. Omitting documentation will render the plant engineer’s site failure analysis inaccurate.

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of EC&M, create an account today!

Sponsored Recommendations

Electrical Conduit Comparison Chart

CHAMPION FIBERGLASS electrical conduit is a lightweight, durable option that provides lasting savings when compared to other materials. Compare electrical conduit types including...

Considerations for Direct Burial Conduit

Installation type plays a key role in the type of conduit selected for electrical systems in industrial construction projects. Above ground, below ground, direct buried, encased...

How to Calculate Labor Costs

Most important to accurately estimating labor costs is knowing the approximate hours required for project completion. Learn how to calculate electrical labor cost.

8 Types of Electrical Conduit and Their Uses

Electrical conduit is a tube or raceway used to house and protect electrical wires within a building or structure. From data centers to underground subways to ports and bridges...