Waste Baler Maintenance: When and How to Service Your Equipment

As businesses look to cut down on waste, using waste balers is becoming an increasingly popular way of managing recyclable materials efficiently, including plastic and cardboard. Waste balers are crucial to more effective waste management as they help reduce waste volume and make recycling more sustainable. However, like any machinery, balers require regular maintenance to keep them in optimal working condition. Neglecting maintenance can lead to costly breakdowns and reduced efficiency. In this article, we'll explore when and how to service your waste baler equipment.

The importance of waste baler maintenance

Maintaining your waste baler is not just about keeping it in good shape; it's about optimising your recycling operations. Here's why it's crucial:

Cost Savings

Regular maintenance can extend the lifespan of your baler. Replacing a waste baler is a significant investment, so keeping it in good condition can save you money in the long run.

Efficiency

Well-maintained balers operate at peak efficiency. They bale more waste in less time, reducing labour costs and increasing overall productivity.

Safety

A poorly maintained baler can pose safety risks to your employees. Malfunctions and breakdowns can lead to accidents, which can damage your business’ reputation and have financial implications. Regular maintenance ensures a safer working environment.

Environmental impact

Recycling is essential for reducing the environmental impact of waste. A well-maintained baler helps you maximise recycling efforts, which, in turn, reduces the amount of waste sent to landfills.

When to service your waste baler

Understanding when to service your waste baler is key to its longevity and efficiency. Here are some key indicators that it's time to schedule maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance

Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for regular service intervals. These schedules are designed to address common wear and tear issues and prevent major breakdowns.

Unusual sounds or vibrations

If your baler starts making strange noises or vibrating excessively during operation, it's a sign that something may be wrong. Get it checked out immediately to prevent further damage.

Hydraulic issues

Hydraulic systems are critical for plastic and cardboard baler operation. If you notice slow or erratic hydraulic movements, it's a red flag that the system needs attention.

Bale quality

Inspect the quality of the bales your machine produces. If they are loose, uneven, or not up to standard, your baler may need adjustments.

Oil leaks

Oil leaks can be a common issue with hydraulic systems. If you see any oil leaks, address them promptly to prevent hydraulic system damage.

Safety concerns

If any safety features or emergency stop mechanisms aren't functioning correctly, don't delay in getting them fixed. Safety should always be a top priority.

How to Service Your Waste Baler

Now that we know when to service your baler, let's explore how to do it effectively:

Regular Cleaning: Start with regular cleaning. Dust, debris, and waste materials can accumulate over time, causing wear and tear. Clean all accessible parts of the baler regularly to keep it in good shape.

Lubrication: Proper lubrication is essential for moving parts. Refer to your cardboard or plastic baler's manual for guidance on which lubricants to use and how often to apply them.

Tension Adjustment: Check and adjust the tension settings as needed. Proper tension ensures that the bales are tightly packed and reduces strain on the baler.

Hydraulic System Check: Inspect the hydraulic system for leaks, loose connections, and damaged hoses. Address any issues promptly to avoid costly repairs.

Electrical Components: Test and maintain electrical components, including switches and sensors, to ensure they are functioning correctly.

Safety Features: Regularly test and inspect safety features such as emergency stops and interlocks. Ensure they are in working order to protect your employees.

Replace Worn Parts: Over time, various components may wear out. Keep an inventory of common spare parts and replace them as needed to prevent downtime.

Hire professional maintenance solutions for the best results

While you can perform some maintenance tasks in-house, professional maintenance can be a far more effective solution for ensuring cardboard and plastic waste balers are kept up to scratch. A professional technician can identify and address issues that may not be apparent to the untrained eye.

Best practice for plastic and cardboard waste balers

When it comes to waste balers, whether they are used for plastic or cardboard, the maintenance principles remain largely the same. However, there are a few specific considerations:

Cardboard balers may require more frequent maintenance, as cardboard can be abrasive and cause faster wear and tear. Keep a close eye on the baling chamber and ensure it's clean and free of debris.
Plastic balers may face challenges related to material build-up and adhesion. Regular cleaning and lubrication are even more critical in this case.
Before baling plastic or cardboard, inspect the materials for any contaminants that could damage the baler or reduce bale quality. Remove any foreign objects before baling.

Professional waste baler maintenance from phs Wastekit

Proper waste baler maintenance is essential for cost savings, operational efficiency, safety, and environmental impact. Knowing when to service your equipment and how to do it effectively can help you maximise the benefits of your waste baler.

At phs Wastekit, we not only provide cardboard and plastic balers to rent and buy, but we also provide waste baler service and maintenance to help ensure your balers maintain their performance. We have four maintenance packages available to help you decide on the best package for your needs:

Bronze Shield

Routine service
Scheduled by our team for peace of mind
Completed to manufacturer’s recommendations
Fully trained specialists
PUWER compliance

Silver Shield

Routine service
Scheduled by our team for peace of mind
Completed to manufacture’s recommendations
Fully trained specialists
Breakdown coverage
High rate of first-time fix
PUWER compliance

Gold Shield

Routine service
Scheduled by our team for peace of mind
Completed to manufacture’s recommendations
Fully trained specialists
Breakdown coverage
High rate of first-time fix
Full labour coverage
PUWER compliance

Platinum Shield

Routine service

Scheduled by our team for peace of mind
Completed to manufacture’s recommendations
Fully trained specialists
Breakdown coverage
High rate of first-time fix
Full labour coverage
Parts required for repairs
PUWER compliance

And no matter which package you choose, you will also get:

You'll receive two preventative maintenance calls every year, to help us diagnose and repair issues with waste-handling equipment before they become a problem.
You pay just one simple annual payment.
You'll get courteous and friendly services from a fully qualified engineer trained in all manner of health and safety requirements and the servicing of hydraulic and electrical equipment.
You'll benefit from unlimited call-outs

Different packages have different price points, and there may be packages more suited to your needs than others. For more information or help choosing the best waste baler service plan for your needs, contact phs Wastekit today and we’ll help you keep your waste baler in shape.