Maximize the payback of synthetic screen media with proactive vs. reactive maintenance.

by Marc Lovallo and Alan Tindall

Proactive maintenance is described as preventive, planned, and predictive — while reactive maintenance is simply a run-it-until-it-breaks approach. Indeed, the latter leads producers into a costly crisis mode. Regarding synthetic screen media, proactive maintenance delivers numerous benefits — maximum cost efficiency and uptime, longer wear life, consistent specification accuracy, and the security of a reliable and sound screening system.

Proactive maintenance appears to be a no-brainer, yet in reality, according to a recent survey, nearly 50 percent of plant operators consider their maintenance practices to be merely satisfactory or poor. The remaining 50 percent rank themselves in the good to excellent category — and this top half is arguably the clear winner where profitability is concerned.

With that said, let’s take a look at some media maintenance matters that are guaranteed to maximize the payback of your synthetic screen systems.

Periodic inspections

Due to its long wear life, it’s common to find a set-it-and-forget-it attitude surrounding synthetic media — and that should be avoided. It’s very important to inspect your synthetic screen decks periodically for loose panels or unusual wear patterns which may be caused by a change in feed rate or by high-pressure spray water, for example. Consider that if a screen panel is not replaced before it is worn entirely through, it could result in out-of-spec material, damage to the fastening system, or even to the steel supporting deck.

Monitor quality control samples