Niche Companies and Quality Service/Parts
Specialization and niche, frankly, go hand-in-hand. When dealing with multi-part equipment such as balers and scrap loggers, it is imperative that the parts can be efficiently upgraded or replaced. This includes the time it takes to search for them, the reliability of the provider, and what is actually available. For example, can you obtain the precise OEM part? Or do you have to settle for generic replacement parts from companies that usually sell to big-box markets? Consider the following non-negotiable standards that every piece of scrap equipment must have:
Compatible Parts: This is where a niche company like Aljon truly shines. The ability to acquire the precise parts for your equipment reaps dividends in all facets of your business. For example, you can replace parts expeditiously without any amendments to the scrap logger/baler (or other heavy equipment); you can also rely more on the estimated lifetime of operation. Sometimes, after-market parts have operational lifetimes that vary wildly.
You simply can’t put a price on quick installation, confidence, and the expected reliability of an original equipment manufactured part. This same reliability will reduce future complications and set the standard for future replacements.
Quality Certified by the Manufacturer: If you had to choose a single attribute to prioritize, you’d likely choose quality. OEM parts providers stake almost their entire business on the expectation of quality and applicability, and these attributes are even more important for niche companies than for big box brands. As a result, you can be confident that the parts meet all technical standards. Additionally, industry compliance rules are instantiated into the production cycle of OEM parts, since this is what they specialize in. It also gives them an advantage over generic brands.
Confidence in the Function and Longevity of Scrap Equipment Parts: One of the biggest differences between OEM parts and generic after-market parts is the specification. After-market parts are not nearly as specific to a particular machine, as they can vary in thickness, girth, and other dimensions. After all, they need to be available to multiple clients – who often have machines that differ slightly in their operation.
As a result, longevity is usually compromised. Differences in girth between the OEM part and the generic part can reduce the operational lifetime of the heavy equipment; or, at the very least, reduce the lifespan of that part within the heavy equipment. It goes without saying that this will negatively affect performance in the long run. If the generic part is inefficient after installation, other parts of the heavy equipment will be taxed beyond their own specifications.
Equipment Maintenance and Best Practices
Scrap logger/balers are some of the heartiest pieces of heavy equipment conventionally available. Braving the elements day in and day out throughout a long operational lifetime, you can expect to replace certain parts a few times.
When you do need to replace parts, being able to order directly from the company that built your scrap logger/baler is an ideal scenario. Aljon has OEM parts in stock and ready.
In addition to eschewing generic parts in favor of OEM parts, you should follow best practices for equipment maintenance. Here’s the short of what should be included in a maintenance schedule:
Regular Oil Changes: The generally accepted interval for changing the oil in your scrap equipment logger/baler is about 500 hours. Such a schedule will stretch the operational lifetime by keeping the engine parts lubricated and resistant to friction damage. It is precisely this wear-and-tear that induces premature breakdowns, as the oil becomes contaminated with grit and becomes more abrasive to the engine parts. Furthermore, you will benefit from improved efficiency of operation when you stick to a consistent schedule of changing the engine oil.
Consistent Greasing: Every piece of heavy scrap equipment should come with instructions from the manufacturer on greasing the hinges, joints, etc. Metal and steel have a strong capacity to cause damage when grinding against one another, so greasing parts after every shift (assuming about 8 hours) is a great way to extend the lifetime of your heavy machinery. Aljon equipment comes with a manual on the essentials – such as changing hydraulic oil, greasing bearings, and joints, and engine oil-change specifications.
Experience: The Gold Standard
You can have all the above, but if you don’t get your scrap equipment from service technicians who know the ropes, then you’re jeopardizing the longevity of your operation. The ins and outs of the heavy equipment, and scrap logger/baler industry are multifaceted, and only providers with decades of experience can point you in the direction that meets the bulk of your needs.
When it comes to equipment, you want someone with ample experience in the industry. Such a service leader would have seen much of what the industry has to offer and would be well-positioned to provide the best advice on equipment and parts for any current machine. Additionally, your field techs can provide hands-on experience insofar as machine operation is concerned, with a comprehensive knowledge of parts and services. Aljon, specifically, has reps that have been in the business for three decades. You can be very confident that you’re getting the precise parts for your scrap equipment, with information on operator training and device maintenance.
