A granulator mill can gradually lose capacity without there being an obvious breakdown. The cause is usually a combination of worn edges, incorrect clearances, clogged screens or fixings that have lost their tightening torque.
Daily checks
- Listen to abnormal noises and vibrations.
- Record consumption, temperature and production.
- Check that no metals or foreign objects enter.
- Inspect the size and uniformity of the granules.
Periodic inspection of the cutting chamber
With the equipment locked and following safety procedure, rotor and stator blades, screws, seats and shims should be inspected. A dirty bearing surface can tilt the blade and alter clearance even if the edge is properly sharpened.
Screen, evacuation and bearings
The sieve defines the final size and determines the residence time of the material. Deformed perforations or a partially blocked basket increase recirculation and temperature. It is also advisable to check lubrication, clearances and bearing tightness.
Maintenance log
Recording hours of work, number of sharpenings, hardness, material processed and incidents allows you to anticipate the next change. This data helps compare steels and geometries with real cost per ton criteria.
Find blades, screens and spare parts for mills or request a review through our technical department.
Frequency based on hours and condition
A fixed schedule is a good starting point, but must be adjusted for material abrasion and contamination. Visual inspection can be scheduled per shift; torque and separation control, by hour; and the change of blades, according to consumption trends and quality of the granules.
Recording vibration and temperature allows bearings, imbalance or accumulations to be detected before they cause a serious breakdown.
Preparing to change blades
- Have sharpening kit, hardware and shims available.
- Check measurements and assembly direction before stopping the line.
- Prepare lifting means for heavy blades.
- Clean supports without damaging them.
- Record height and number of sharpenings of the removed set.
Safety during maintenance
The cutting chamber must be isolated from all energy sources by the applicable lockout procedure. The rotor can move by gravity or accumulated energy. Cutting edges should be handled with protection and transported with appropriate covers.
Frequently asked questions
How often should the separation be checked?
After each change or sharpening and whenever irregular granulometry, noise or abnormal consumption appears.
Should the screws be changed?
Thread, head and length must be inspected. If the manufacturer requires replacement or there are deformations, they should not be reused.
What data helps you plan?
Hours, tons, material, amperage, sharpening date and observations of the cutting edge allow you to predict the next service.
Documented maintenance turns blades into a controllable cost and reduces urgent interventions.