Contractor Tips Blog

Mar
31

Replacing Industrial Hoses

Almost any kind of machinery that has directed hydraulics, air flow, lubrication or fuel has industrial hoses in the motor. When this machinery is used in manufacturing or other high-end production, a worn-out hose could bring the operation to a standstill. Knowing the right hoses to have on hand and a quality supplier can save your company thousands of dollars in lost production for a part that is nominal in price.

Types of Industrial Hoses

From manufacturing equipment needing hydraulic hoses to construction and agriculture operations that use discharge hoses in their operations, industrial hoses play an important part in business. While most hoses should be replaced proactively during routine maintenance, it can become necessary to replace a hose due to wear. Knowing the right hose to order and have on hand is crucial to ensure there isn’t downtime occurring due to a simple replacement hose.

The “STAMPED” method is used to determine the right industrial hose you need for your application. Since rubber hoses can look alike and often may not have distinguishing marks, this method can help you order the right hose for your equipment. This method looks at:

  •  Size
  •  Temperatures (maximum and minimum temperatures of material being transported)
  •  Application (industry)
  •  Material (what is being transported)
  •  Pressure (highest working)
  •  End (type of end connectors on hose)
  • Delivery method

It is also important to have the right coupling and fitting for the hose to attach it to the equipment. You may be able to use the components from the hose you are replacing, but these are parts you should also keep on hand.

Don’t be caught without the right hoses, couplings and fittings on hand to maintain and repair your industrial equipment. Find a quality supplier and order the industrial hoses you need using the STAMPED method to ensure you have the parts you need to keep your business running smoothly.

Posted on behalf of:
The King Group, Inc.
6865 Shiloh Road East, #100
Alpharetta, GA 30005
(770) 886-1113

Oct
4

Benefits of Using SBR Products

Do you use SBR rubber products for your business? If you are in manufacturing or many industrial fields, there is a good chance you should. SBR is an acronym for styrene-butadiene rubber, a synthetic form of rubber that is used in many product line applications. While natural rubber is still used to make many of the same type of products, there are benefits to choosing SBR components for your business. Here are a few of those benefits:

  • Cost is always a factor when you are purchasing components. SBR products can save money over natural rubber. Every penny affects your bottom line, so if you can find a quality part for less money, it is always a benefit to your business.
  • SBR is used to create a wide variety of products, from o-rings and pads to conveyor belts and hoses. Almost anything that can be made from natural rubber can also be made from SBR.
  • Temperature. One of the biggest benefits of SBR is its resistance to extreme temperatures. Whether it is used in below freezing conditions or in temperatures above 200 degrees, it can function and perform as required.
  • SBR can withstand an immense amount of abuse. It holds up well to abrasion; also, it has respectable tensile strength. It also is water resistant, which can be important in many applications.

Like any industrial component, you want the highest quality at the best price when it comes to rubber. You also want to ensure it meets the needs for durability and performance for your application. To learn more about SBR products, talk to a reputable supplier of industrial rubber components to find out if you can save money by switching to SBR parts.

Posted on behalf of:
The King Group, Inc.
6865 Shiloh Road East, #100
Alpharetta, GA 30005
(770) 886-1113

Jul
21

Importance of a Quality Timing Belt Supplier

If you run a manufacturing facility, productivity is the lifeline of your business. One piece of equipment coming to a halt can quickly add up to thousands of dollars of lost revenue when productivity is affected. This is why equipment maintenance is essential to protect the bottom line, especially when it comes to one small part that can have a big impact: timing belts.

Almost every piece of heavy machinery has a timing belt. From standard and metric timing belts to the V-belt that is in every manufacturing plant in the country, these belts keep your production line moving. However, they need maintenance and proactive replacement to ensure they continue to do their job day in and day out. It is essential to have your timing belts regularly inspected and replaced when needed to avoid an expensive failure.

Even with regular maintenance, timing and V-belts can fail. When this happens, you need to have a quality timing belt supplier that can get you the belt you need right away. This can be more difficult than it sounds. If you have a hodge-podge of different types of manufacturing equipment, you may have many different types of timing belts you use. Choose a timing belt supplier that offers the following advantages to ensure they will have what you need, when you need it:

  • Metric and standard timing belts
  • V-belts in every variety
  • Troubleshooting expertise
  • Immediate shipping for belt orders

To avoid costly shutdowns, consider talking to your timing belt supplier about ordering extra belts for all your equipment. They can help you determine which belts you need so that when the time comes for replacement, you will be ready.

Posted on behalf of:
The King Group, Inc.
6865 Shiloh Road East, #100
Alpharetta, GA 30005
(770) 886-1113

Jun
23

Common Causes of V-Belt Failure in Manufacturing Applications

Almost every manufacturing plant has equipment that requires a v-belt. Whether it is for a conveyor belt or other machinery, these belts are needed to keep production rolling. However, they are often one of the reasons productions comes to a halt. To make your v-belts last longer, consider these common causes of v-belt failure to extend the life of your belts to keep your production floor rolling.

  • High temperatures. While some heat is unavoidable, high ambient temperatures can cause your v-belts to become brittle and crack, giving out at the most inopportune times. Using good ventilation and air flow can help reduce heat in the drives, protecting your v-belts.
  • Oil damage. Oil and other contaminants can damage your v-belts. If you have v-belts that fall apart in layers or are slipping, it is a sign that oil is leaking into your drive, causing belt damage.
  • Large loads. If your conveyor is handling larger loads than it is specified for, this can cause v-belt failure. Improper or overloading can cause high heat and fast wear on your v-belt. For heavy applications, often changing your v-belt to a notched or cogged version can prolong the use.
  • Improper installation. Are you constantly replacing v-belts? It may not be the belt but instead the installation.  Misalignment and setting the wrong tension can cause belt failure. Inspect the installation process to ensure alignment and tension is correct.

Not sure if you have the right v-belt for your application? Talk to your local industrial rubber supplier that offers v-belt replacements. An experienced supplier can help you determine the right v-belt for your application that will last longer and keep your production line moving.

Posted on behalf of:
The King Group, Inc.
6865 Shiloh Road East, #100
Alpharetta, GA 30005
(770) 886-1113

Apr
10

Choosing the Right Rubber Material for Your Manufacturing Application

All rubber products are not made equal. From pure gum rubber to silicone rubber products, there are different rubber materials that are better fitted for specific manufacturing applications. If you are searching for the right rubber product for your needs, consider which has the best components for your application and budget. Some popular rubber products used in manufacturing include:

  • Pure gum rubber. For a rubber product that is resistant to abrasion, pure gum rubber tubing or sheets is often preferred. This material handles high heats well and can be heated and cooled while still keeping its form.
  • Skirtboard rubber. If you are moving bulk material such as gravel, sand or other small granules, skirtboard rubber is an inexpensive material that is perfect for your conveyor belts. This durable material can help prevent spillovers, helping you retain your bulk product.
  • SBR rubber. Styrene-Butadiene Synthetic Rubber or SBR is used for applications in many industries, but particularly in the HVAC and construction industries. This semi-abrasive material can withstand up to 210 degrees of heat, making it an excellent product for durable applications.
  • Silicone rubber. When you need a rubber product that will not stick to your items while withstanding high heat, silicone rubber is an excellent choice. This material can be cut into many sizes and is sold in rolled bulk for manufacturers.

The best way to get the right rubber product for your budget and manufacturing application is to consult a rubber supply expert. Contact a local rubber supplier that carries a wide variety of rubber products, cut specifically for your size needs to get the best advice on purchasing rubber materials for your manufacturing business.

Posted on behalf of:
The King Group, Inc.
6865 Shiloh Road East, #100
Alpharetta, GA 30005
(770) 886-1113

Jan
28

Benefits of Pure Gum Rubber in Manufacturing

Sometimes nature does it best. That is often the case when it comes to rubber products for manufacturing. Natural, pure gum rubber is made from the sap of the rubber tree and has been used for centuries for its durable qualities. Even though there are many man-made rubber products available, there are benefits to using pure gum rubber for your manufacturing business.

Pure gum rubber naturally is resistant to abrasions and can be heated or cooled without destroying the material. It can also be exposed to many chemicals without damage, such as some versions alkaline, acid and salt solutions. This makes this absorbent material wonderful for manufacturing where exposure to temperature changes and various chemicals is necessary.

In manufacturing, pure gum rubber is often used in skirting, padding or sealing applications for equipment. This material is strong enough to be used over and over, without causing abrasion to the materials it comes in contact with. The supple material is cost effective compared to other similar materials and can be purchased in tubing or in sheets from wholesale rubber suppliers for the manufacturing industry. The flexible material can be cut to fit various needs within the manufacturing industry and is available in different colors.

If you are looking for a material that will effectively protect your manufacturing equipment, look into using pure gum rubber sheets or tubing in your operation. Talk to your local commercial rubber supplier about the sizes and forms of pure gum rubber available. Many suppliers can cut the rubber material to order for your business, so you get the right size and quantity for your needs.

Posted on behalf of:
The King Group, Inc.
6865 Shiloh Road East, #100
Alpharetta, GA 30005
(770) 886-1113

Dec
7

Discharge Hoses

Discharge hoses are mostly used in plant operations to carry out materials such as water, sand, and waste. It is highly important that a plant have the proper discharge hoses and well as the proper fitting of the hoses for their operations. There are all sizes and lengths available for discharge hoses and a professional manufacturer can assist operation managers in choosing the hoses that are needed. 

It is important to realize that there are many factors involved in choosing the correct hose for the specific needs of each plant or commercial facility. Perhaps the best method in choosing a proper discharge hose is to use the “STAMPED” method – Size, Temperature, Application, Material being conveyed, Pressure, Ends, & Delivery. Knowing these factors, will allow an expert staff supplier to lead buyers in the right direction. The size of a discharge hose depends on the application that it will be used for. Discharge hoses are used in various industries such as construction, marine, industrial, mining, agriculture, and municipal. Knowing the working pressures (low, medium, or high) for the specific application is necessary so that the purchased hose will withstand application uses. Custom discharge hoses are made with the specifications of buyers and can be purchased in bulk. 

Finding a reliable supplier of discharge hoses with a quick turn around is important to plant operations. An experienced supplier can help you find exactly what type and size discharge hose you need for a particular application. Custom discharge hoses can be made for those needing hoses with specific diameters and lengths, so finding the most reliable and reputable supplier is essential.

Posted on behalf of:
The King Group, Inc.
6865 Shiloh Road East, #100
Alpharetta, GA 30005
(770) 886-1113

Sep
10

Does Your Business Need A Vacuum Conveyor Belt?

There are many types of commercial conveyor belts available for manufacturing, packaging and warehousing needs, all with unique benefits and uses. Vacuum conveyor belts are one of these options, designed for the specific purpose of transporting flat items. If you are in the market to purchase a conveyor belt, you may benefit from the unique properties a vacuum conveyor can offer. 

Benefits Of Vacuum Conveyor Belts

Unlike many other types of conveyor belts, vacuum conveyors use suctioned air to keep items secured to the moving belt through the use of air holes. This is useful for a variety of products which easily move or fall off other types of belts. Some of the benefits of using vacuum conveyors include: 

  • Flat items. Vacuum conveyors are perfect for flat products like paper, cardboard and other items with a flat surface. Paper, printing and cardboard industries are some of the largest users of vacuum conveyor belts.
     
  • Secure grip. Any item which needs to be securely held on a belt due to size, material or inclines can benefit from the use of suction through air holes on vacuum belts.
     
  • Belt position. For items that need to be held straight or flat on the belt for gluing or other procedures, a vacuum conveyor may be the best solution. 

Most vacuum conveyor belts are customized for the unique product it will be designed to accommodate. This includes the location of air holes, the size of the belt and many other specifications. For companies in the printing, cardboard and paper industries, along with many other applications, the vacuum conveyor is an indispensable piece of equipment which can increase production and quality.

Posted on behalf of The King Group, Inc.

Jul
3

Having Conveyor Belt Problems?

Conveyor belts are used in many applications, from retail to manufacturing. These convenient devices are so much a part of most operations that it would be hard to imagine having to do the job without them. So, when a belt goes down, it can make work come to a standstill, costing money in labor and production. Finding the problem and getting it fixed fast is crucial in almost any business. 

Find An Experienced Conveyor Belt Service Company

When it comes to conveyor belts, you need a service company who knows these machines inside and out. An experienced outfit should be able to help you troubleshoot the problem quickly, then get it fixed in as little time as possible. If conveyor belts are an integral part of your business, find a reliable service company and make sure to keep them on speed dial. They should offer: 

  • Troubleshooting. The first step in a mechanical breakdown is finding the problem. An experienced conveyor belt service technician can often troubleshoot many problems right over the phone.
     
  • Repair. You need a company who has the parts and expertise to repair all types of conveyor belts, fast and efficiently. Every hour a belt is down can cost many businesses money in production.
     
  • Replacement. You want a company who can repair or replace your conveyor belts when necessary. Make sure the company you choose can handle all your conveyor belt needs. 

Get up and running with limited delay the next time your conveyor belt is giving your production floor problems. Find an experienced conveyor belt service, repair and replacement company who will be there when you need them to keep everything moving down the line.

Posted on behalf of The King Group, Inc.

Apr
8

SBR Rubber Products

SBR stands for styrene-butadiene rubber and is a widely used product used in a number of industrial, automotive and commercial applications as a cost effective replacement for natural rubber.  Common uses of SBR rubber include rubber pads, o-rings, hydraulic brake systems seals and diaphragms, grommets, gaskets, conveyor belts, isolation pads, shelf liners, workstation table liners, dishwasher drain hoses, HVAC ductwork isolation connectors, work area liners and a wide variety of industrial and production line applications. 

The main limitation to the product is its use in any application where the product is exposed to high pressure, ozone, strong acids, oils, grease and most hydrocarbons, although use in moderate chemical and hydrocarbon environments is acceptable.  

Beyond the lower cost, there are a number of benefits to SBR as a replacement to natural rubber.  One of the biggest benefits is the product’s ability to perform as designed in temperatures from -30° to over 210° without failure.  In addition, the product is versatile, flexible and strong, while also possessing above average abrasion and tensile strength characteristics. 

It also features above average water resistance qualities, with resilience up to 70 durometers, which is a means to measure the hardness of the SBR.  Another feature of SBR rubber is that it is manufactured without the use of chloroprene, which is considered to be a “Hazardous Class 3 Flammable Liquid”, with significant restrictions on its transfer..  SBR rubber is available in roll lengths that are cut to order and is available in a variety of thicknesses. 

Posted on behalf of The King Group

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