Everyone is this industry works hard. Those who are most successful work hard within an effective operating system. So, once all Personal Protection Equipment is applied, let’s set you and your machine up for success with these five easy-to-follow tips!
Anvil, Inserts and Screens: Ensure they are not overly worn/rounded on edges. This will not only increase fuel usage, but will rob your machine of production during your shift, as the components will be required to work harder in sizing material for your desired end product. Worn components will also change the output sizing, potentially adding to regrinding or screening needs, and costs, down the line. [Keeping air filters clean will also optimize fuel savings by as much as 10%.]
Wear Parts: Keep a supply on site (if working remotely), to reduce down time if—some will say “when”—foreign materials are impacted while grinding. Recommended inventory: Inserts, nuts and bolts, at least one hammer and a set of grates. Having these parts on hand will get you back in the grind faster … likely when you need it most.
Material Preparation: Pre-prep whenever possible to ensure a smooth transition from pile to the infeed of the grinder, as well as subsequent processing once in the infeed. Cut off large log ends to facilitate a quicker processing time. This practice will also help reduce the time spent fighting with larger, irregular material and manipulating it to feed through. Try to also presort longer materials into manageable piles that are as consistent in orientation as possible for the support equipment used to feed your grinder.
Identify Feed “Sweet Spot”: While different for almost every set-up, in feeding your machine there will be a sweet spot with every material. Accordingly, try to dial in and not over feed or underfeed your machine. Consistent throughput with little start/stop action will increase overall production significantly. This feed level can most easily be identified by watching the infeed action, as well as monitoring the consistency of material depth on your discharge belt. Keep it flowing!
MICS System Pre-Sets: Typical factory MICS System settings include: Trees & Stumps, C&D, Regrind Yoke Bump Up, Regrind Yoke Bump Down, Brush and Large Logs and Stumps pre-sets. If you do not find your specific “material blend” in the MICS System presets, the “Trees and Stump” setting typically works best for mixed materials. Give it a try and let us know how it compares.
Hope this helps. Look for more information from Aaron Dunham or myself in future tips on how the MICS System can boost production … and make your life easier. Safe and successful grinding!
Wally Robison Morbark’s Wally Robison is a field sales representative and used equipment specialist with decades of experience in the land clearing and recycling industries. Having partnered with thousands of operations in that time, he’s honed a rare, grinder-humming prowess, which he's happy to share.
