Taking care of your tools correctly can not only extend their lifespan, but will also show results in your work. Having a regular maintenance routine for both hand tools and power tools will make any project safer, easier and ultimately more successful. This routine will also save you money in the long run by eliminating the need for replacements or repairs.
The maintenance process is more than just storage and cleaning. Quality of a tool should be monitored right from the beginning. It’s important to consider questions such as am I using the right tool for the job? And am I using it correctly? Here’s some top tips on how to maintain the best tool quality, covering both hand tools and power tools.
Hand tool maintenance
Hand tools such as screwdrivers, hammers, pliers and wire cutters are just a few examples of common hand tools used in both factories and households. Often kept in garages, tool sheds or storage boxes, these tools are hard wearing and long lasting. Like most equipment, hand tools can suffer from wear and tear, so depending on how regularly they are used, can become victims to rusting and damage. Luckily, there are many simple steps to take to keep these tools protected.
Cleaning after every use
Even if the job is only small, making sure to clean tools after every use is crucial in their quality and results. Everyday cleaning can be as simple as a quick wipe over or dust, making sure there is no residue or dirt the next time it’s being used.
Sharpening up the edges
Important for both safety and quality, sharpening up the edges or giving a tool a refresh is always a good idea after a few uses. This can include sanding down a wooden handle, lubricating surfaces or grinding off metal edges.
Correct storage
A proper storage routine is a must for hand tools. Investing in a good quality toolbox, storage container or shelving unit, will keep your tools protected and help to keep them in peak condition. Ideally, the tools should be stored somewhere with minimal moisture and a constant room temperature.
Power tool maintenance
As power tools can bring more hazards, this means the tool must be inspected from start to finish. Power tools such as electric drills, saws or sanders also require routine maintenance after every use. Because of their mechanical and electrical components, power tools are more prone to issues caused by debris or general malfunction. In manufacturing specifically, power tool maintenance is vital for factory safety. Here are some helpful steps to follow to keep power tools safe, clean and reliable.
Regular cleaning
Dust and grime can cause a power tool to come to a halt at any time. By wiping them clean before and after every job, this will ensure there is no dirt on the surface. Power tools can also benefit from occasional deep cleaning. These cleans are a lot more intricate and require a damp or oiled cloth to get into exhausts or other hard-to-clean areas.
Battery inspections
Although cordless, battery-powered tools are convenient, they also come with battery maintenance in order to keep them reliable and efficient. Batteries can remain working at optimum level by charging and discharging their power once every couple of weeks. But it’s important to not let batteries sit unused.
For battery maintenance, start by cleaning the area with cotton swabs or alcohol. Make sure to also store unused batteries in a dry, clean place away from excessive heat.
Storage
Storage is a huge factor when it comes to power tool maintenance. By keeping tools protected from dust and moisture, this not only keeps the factory tidy, but also gets them ready for the next use. Power tools are best kept in their original case, or tucked them away in storage drawers, a garage or fitted box.
Checking for wear and tear
Similar to a hand tool, power tools will eventually become worn after constant use. If using a power tool every day, it’s easy for poor performance to go unnoticed. That’s why it’s important to carry out an inspection before each use. This gives an opportunity to check both the internal and external functions, checking features such as frayed wires, power cords, loose parts or general wear.
By running a few basic operations with the tool, this will make you aware of any warning signs, burning smells, or strange noises coming from inside the tool. By running these tests first, this can save time and resources if something was to go wrong.
Tool Repair
Our tool repair service is utilised by a range of customers across the automotive, manufacturing and engineering sectors. We’ve earned a reputation for the quality and speed of our tool repair service.
We offer a range of service options from planned maintenance schedules to as-and-when options. Whatever the origin of your tools, we endeavour to service or repair them in as short a time as possible. A regular service schedule can be of great benefit to businesses operating round the clock.
Contact Pro Moulds today and discuss your design, moulding, maintenance and service needs.
Whatever your tool repair, mod or maintenance needs, we offer free advice to all potential customers over the phone, just call us on 01623 904 417 and we’ll be happy to help.