ASGCO has introduced a new preventive maintenance strategy aimed at optimizing belt conveyor performance across feed, transfer, stacking, and reclaim systems. Released on January 16, 2026, the plan details a comprehensive schedule of inspections, from daily checks to annual overhauls, with a strong emphasis on safety protocols, lockout/tagout procedures, and meticulous documentation within a computerized maintenance management system (CMMS). This structured approach is designed to enable trend analysis, paving the way for a transition toward predictive maintenance.
This proactive maintenance framework, developed by ASGCO’s specialized personnel, seeks to enhance the reliability and efficiency of bulk material handling operations. It establishes uniform standards for safe and dependable conveyor functionality, covering all classifications of conveyor systems used in these environments.
The strategy employs a tiered inspection and maintenance schedule, ranging from daily operational checks to more in-depth annual evaluations. Central to this framework are three key pillars: adherence to stringent safety requirements, the preservation of mechanical components, and the assurance of electrical system integrity. By focusing on these interconnected aspects, ASGCO aims to maximize operational availability and extend the service life of conveyor equipment.
Safety is paramount within the ASGCO maintenance structure. Before any maintenance work begins, personnel are required to implement lockout and tagout procedures to confirm that all energy sources are de-energized and safely isolated. The framework also mandates the use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and strictly prohibits any work on conveyor systems that are in operation. These measures establish a foundational standard for all maintenance activities.
Daily maintenance involves essential checks performed at the start of each operational shift. These inspections focus on monitoring belt alignment, identifying any unusual noises during system operation, and verifying that all safety mechanisms are functioning correctly. As the maintenance schedule progresses to weekly intervals, the focus expands to include the removal of accumulated spillage, a thorough examination of idlers and roller assemblies, and an assessment of cleaning devices and scraper mechanisms.
The maintenance schedule extends beyond these initial tasks to incorporate more sophisticated activities at monthly, quarterly, and semi-annual intervals. These intermediate reviews involve deeper system assessments. The culmination of this structured approach is a comprehensive annual examination designed to evaluate the overall operational status of the entire conveyor system.
A critical component of ASGCO’s framework is comprehensive documentation. All maintenance activities are systematically recorded within a CMMS. This data collection process allows facilities to identify operational patterns and trends over time. Such analytical capabilities are essential for transitioning from traditional time-based maintenance to predictive maintenance models, where interventions are scheduled based on actual system performance data and potential failure indicators.
The strategy is designed for broad applicability across various industrial sectors involved in bulk material processing and transfer. Facilities that implement these new maintenance standards are expected to see measurable improvements in safety performance, enhanced equipment reliability, and reductions in long-term operational expenditures. ASGCO recognizes that operational environments and technological capabilities are constantly evolving and has therefore designed the maintenance schedule with adaptability in mind. Periodic evaluations and modifications, informed by operational data and technological advancements, will ensure the program’s continued relevance and effectiveness as industry standards and equipment configurations change.
Sources
- https://www.canadianminingjournal.com/news/asgco-tackles-conveyor-reliability-with-latest-maintenance-strategy/
