How Can Daily Inspections Ensure the Safety of Rock Loader?

Rock loaders are essential machines used to load ore or rocks in mining operations. However, when these machines break down, they pose significant risks, especially when they malfunction and operate uncontrollably. This can lead to severe injuries for workers. While regular maintenance is crucial, it only takes place periodically, meaning there is always a chance that issues could arise between service intervals. Therefore, daily inspections are just as important for ensuring the safety of these machines on a day-to-day basis.

Here are key inspection points that should be checked daily:

Foot Brake and Limit Switch Movement: Ensure the foot brake and limit switches operate smoothly. If there’s any obstruction, clear away rock debris and obstacles and lubricate with oil.

Oil Pump Motor Direction: After the machine is powered on, test the oil pump motor’s direction to ensure the electrical connection is correct. The pump’s pressure should not be adjusted without proper guidance.

Cable Management: Verify that the cables are securely fastened and properly bundled to avoid wear or disconnection.

Loose or Damaged Components: Inspect all machine parts for signs of looseness or damage. Check cables for fraying, confirm the oil tank’s oil level is adequate, and ensure that lighting fixtures are functioning properly.

Hose Wear: Check if the outer surface of the hoses is rubbing against the bucket arm or machine frame. This friction could cause wear and potential damage to the hoses.

Loose or Leaking Fittings: Inspect all pipe joints for signs of loosening or oil leaks, as these can affect the machine’s efficiency and safety.

Locking Mechanism of Switch Handles: Ensure that the switch handle’s locking mechanism is effective and functions properly.

Track Tension: Inspect the tension of the tracks, making sure they are not too loose or too tight. The track should sag between the track roller and the guide wheel by approximately 15–30mm.

Since the wear and tear on each part of the rock loader vary, no single maintenance session can guarantee that the machine will run perfectly until the next scheduled service. Therefore, performing these daily checks is essential to maximize the safety and reliability of the equipment.

By adhering to these daily inspection steps, the likelihood of unexpected failures is minimized, helping ensure the safety of the machine and, most importantly, the safety of the workers operating it.