Advanced feelers also require maintenance

The highest storage yield can only be achieved if the technical installation is up to date. The signals that the electronic sensors transmit to the storage computer must therefore be 100% correct. Measuring and adjusting every year turns out to be no superfluous luxury in practice.

Maintenance of machines and equipment is often discussed. Often because the usefulness and necessity are not recognized, while the costs for maintenance are actually very concrete. Nevertheless, maintenance of a repository is not an unnecessary luxury. This is because the technology of both the cooling installation and the electrical installation is becoming more advanced at a rapid pace. The highest storage yield (minimum moisture loss, maximum retention of quality) is only within reach if this technique works well.

Advanced feelers
In the past, the emphasis of maintenance was mainly on all mechanical parts of an installation. However, the focus has shifted to electronics and sensors. These highly advanced feelers in the storage communicate with the storage computer, which initiates certain actions to generate the desired storage climate. That is very precise. Minimal deviations can quickly have major adverse effects on weight and quality loss. Only an optimal measurement of the climate can prevent this situation. And yes…, that guarantee only applies with regular maintenance.

Problem-solving and decisive
Annual maintenance is a matter of course for the Mulder-Tulips company in Rutten. They want to rule out electrical faults in the high season in order to guarantee the continuity of the washing machine and sorting installation. "It is important to us that we have the entire processing line in order and that in the summer there are not unnecessarily 10 to 12 tippers waiting to unload. We therefore see maintenance primarily as a preventive measure," says Mulder. The electrical installation of the sorting line is measured and adjusted annually by the specialists at Tolsma Grisnich. Wear-sensitive parts are checked and replaced after consultation. "The collaboration with Tolsma Grisnich is pleasant. The attitude of the employees is problem-solving and decisive. They know what they are talking about, visit many companies and can use their knowledge to ensure that our installation functions optimally."

Legislation
In addition to the practical benefits of refrigeration maintenance, legislation also determines the number of maintenance visits per year. For example, European requirements apply to the number of leak-tightness checks that must be carried out annually. This depends on the type of refrigerant and the number of kilograms with which the cooling machine is filled. What this specifically means for your cooling installation? Ask your custodian.

Tolsma Alert is watching with you
A large number of growers with modern storage sheds choose Tolsma Alert. With this subscription they have the certainty that their storage installation is part of the online screening by storage specialists. They monitor the storage location and react proactively as soon as a malfunction occurs or an unusual deviation in the measurement data is identified.

No maintenance, then not insured
Insurers often set specific requirements with regard to maintenance on the basis of the NEN3140 or Scope 10 standard. Tolsma-Grisnich offers this service. Depending on the age of the installation and storage locations, this inspection is carried out every 3 to 5 years. During these inspections, the emphasis is on fire safety of the installation.

Attention points for maintenance

1. Preventive maintenance reduces the risk of downtime and (higher) repair costs.
2. Regularly clean the condenser and air cooler yourself, which increases the efficiency of the cooling installation.
3. Check the oil level of the compressor of the refrigeration installation every month.
4. Electronics and sensors also need maintenance.
5. Insurers often require periodic maintenance and inspection of the cooling and electrical installation.
6. During the sorting or storage season, register all (minor) problems so that they are not forgotten during the annual maintenance.
7. Order new parts in time so that everything is complete again before the start of the new season

This business case is powered by: