Simple Solutions

Problem: Belts should periodically be inspected. However, many times the equipment can't be shut down or your schedule keeps you away when the equipment is not running. How can belts be inspected while the equipment is running?

Solution: Find an area where the belt can be viewed through the guard. If the guard is solid, make a viewing window covered with a mesh screen. Use a stroboscope with a range that covers the speed of the equipment. Adjust the output of the strobe light to visually inspect the complete length of the belt.

Contributor: Dave Dyke, Maintenance Group Leader, Salinas, KS

Problem: PVC pipe often breaks off inside a coupling or tank connection. How can the broken-off piece be easily removed without damaging the threaded connector?

Solution: For an example, assume a 2 in. PVC pipe has broken off. A 1½-in., Schedule 80, PVC pipe fits perfectly inside the 2-in. PVC pipe. After applying primer and glue to the 1½-in. pipe OD, slip it inside the broken off pipe. Be careful to not get glue on the threads. After drying, the broken off piece can be removed.

Contributor: Kevin Ingram, Facilities Mechanic, Sumitomo Sitix Silicon, Inc., Maineville, OH

Problem: Lubricating with spray lubricants parts that are buried within machinery can be difficult if not impossible without disassembly. Is there an easy way to lubricate difficult-to-reach critical parts?

Solution: Push a length of plastic tubing onto the spray lubricant's existing tube to extend its effective reach. The inside diameter of 1/8-in. tubing provides the best fit for most spray tubes. A spray can will push lubricant several feet through tubing. If you can't get a snug fit, use adhesive in the existing tube. Tape a piece of welding rod to the tubing for rigidity.

Contributor: Robert Herklotz, Mechanical Technologist, Saturn Corp., GMC, Spring Hill, TN