Safety First
Staff -- Plant Engineering, 9/1/2001
In all cases, even if not specifically mentioned in the writeups, verify that the tip does not violate any relevant code, standard, or practice. Always use the appropriate safety equipment and procedures when applying the maintenance tips.
Quick shaft fix
Problem: A bearing becomes loose on a shaft and a spare shaft is not available. How can you quickly rework the shaft and provide a tight bearing fit?
Solution: Remove the bearing from the shaft. Using a hammer and center punch, pit the shaft uniformly around its circumference in the bearing area (see detail). The impact of the center punch creates a small crater surrounded by a ridge. The ridges hold the bearing in place and minimize downtime.
Contributor: Luc Raeckelboom, Curing Engineer (retired), Michelin Tire Co.
Cleaning paint rollers
Problem: Cleaning paperboard core paint rollers is a time-consuming job. Is there a faster, easier way?
Solution: Shove a short extension handle into the ground and screw a paint roller handle onto it. Slide on the dirty roller. Using a garden hose and sprayer, saturate the roller. With a strong spray stream, get the roller to spin quickly, throwing off the paint. (You may want to stand to the side during this operation). Stop rotation with the spray, resoak the roller, and spin it in the other direction. When thoroughly clean (usually three or four spins), let the roller dry. It will look as though it just came out of the wrapper. Note: this method only works for water-based paints.
Contributor: David Fischer, Plant Engineer, Loparex, Inc.
Moving heavy ladders
Problem: Fiberglass ladders are safe to use in most applications in a plant, but they are heavy. Is there a way for one man to easily carry them?
Solution: Take a piece of scrap, 11/2 in. thick, rigid polystyrene foam insulation and cut it for a tight fit inside the upright channels of the fiberglass ladder. Place one piece on each side of the ladder at the balance point. This makes a nice cushioned pad for setting the ladder on your shoulder while carrying it.
Contributor: Frank Kerkvliet, Maintenance Engineer, Sterner Lighting Systems, Inc.
