In the fast-paced world of manufacturing, every second of production counts. Yet, many companies overlook one of the most vital aspects of maintaining a highly efficient packaging operation: preventative maintenance. At ADCO, we’ve witnessed firsthand the stark contrast between machines that follow regular preventative maintenance (PM) plans and those that don’t—and the differences are significant.
The Two Paths: Maintained vs. Neglected Equipment
When packaging equipment is cared for with a structured PM plan, the results speak for themselves:
Machines with PM Plans:
- Longer Lifespans: Regular maintenance ensures your equipment operates at peak performance for years, maximizing your investment.
- Lower Recorded Downtimes: Small, planned interruptions for maintenance prevent unexpected breakdowns that can halt production.
- Higher OEE Numbers: Optimized equipment efficiency results in improved Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), helping you meet production goals without bottlenecks.
- Lower Rebuild Costs: Routine care reduces wear and tear, lowering the need for costly rebuilds or replacements.
- Fewer Service Calls: Customers with PM plans rarely require emergency service or technical support, as their machines consistently perform as expected.
Contrast that with the challenges faced by companies that overlook preventative maintenance:
Non-Maintained Equipment:
- Shortened Lifespans: Lack of care accelerates wear, requiring frequent and costly rebuilds.
- Higher Downtime Rates: Unplanned breakdowns disrupt production schedules, leading to missed deadlines and dissatisfied customers.
- Lower OEE Numbers: Inefficient machinery hinders production flow and compromises overall output.
- Increased Technical Support Needs: Neglected machines generate higher volumes of support calls, which often lead to costly service visits.
- Emergency Service Visits: Reactive maintenance results in more unplanned and expensive service calls, cutting into budgets and production time.
The ROI of Preventative Maintenance: Is It Worth It?
Absolutely. Research consistently demonstrates that every dollar invested in preventative maintenance can save up to five dollars in unforeseen expenses.
“You’re Spending the Money Either Way”
One of the most common misconceptions we encounter is that planned downtime for maintenance equates to lost production time. However, what many companies fail to realize is that neglecting maintenance doesn’t save money—it simply shifts costs elsewhere.
Without preventative maintenance, companies lose production time due to frequent, unplanned downtime. This reactive approach not only disrupts operations but also results in higher repair and rebuild costs over time. In essence, you’re spending the money either way, but investing in PM delivers better outcomes—both for your equipment and your bottom line.
The ADCO Advantage: Proactive Care Pays Off
At ADCO, we’re committed to helping our customers extend the life and efficiency of their packaging equipment. We’ve designed our machines to last, but they perform even better with regular maintenance. Here’s how we support proactive care:
- Tailored PM Plans: Our preventative maintenance programs are customized to meet the unique needs of your equipment and production schedule.
- Expert Technicians: ADCO’s experienced service team provides thorough inspections and adjustments to keep your machines running at peak performance.
- Minimized Disruptions: We work with you to schedule maintenance during low-production periods, minimizing the impact on your operations.
- Long-Term Savings: By addressing issues early, you reduce costly repairs, extend equipment lifespans, and avoid unnecessary downtime.
Conclusion: Protect Your Investment
Preventative maintenance isn’t just a “good-to-have” practice; it’s a strategic decision that protects your bottom line and keeps your operations running smoothly. By investing in regular maintenance, you can avoid the pitfalls of reactive repairs and focus on what matters most: delivering quality products to your customers on time.
Ready to optimize your operations? Contact ADCO today to learn more about our preventative maintenance programs and how we can help you achieve greater efficiency and reliability in your packaging line.
Discover how ADCO’s preventative maintenance plans can save you time and money. Visit Our Website to learn more!
Contributing Authors:
Clare Blodgett – Clareity Marketing
Darwin Rhodes – ADCO Manufacturing
Published:
January 21, 2025
