To do: (machine) documentation

Documentation under the microscope

A detailed documentation of your machine looks like this:

• Electrical diagram
  • Legend
  • Component lists
  • Clip frames
• Pneumatic, hydraulic scheme if applicable
• Drawings mechanical components
• Manual
• Spare parts list
  • Tag numbers
  • Suppliers
  • Type
  • Cost
  • Delivery time
  • Wear parts

An electrical schematic is often taken for granted. With limited pneumatic components, on the other hand, that schematic is sometimes forgotten. Be sure to check that. Always demand a clear and complete manual from your supplier. This should describe in detail not only the operation but also the error handling. It will save you a lot of time when an error occurs.

According to CE legislation, the manual must also always be available in the language of the member state. After all, what good is an instruction manual if you and your employees do not understand it. At Promation, we use instructional videos in many cases. Because, after all, video is more appealing than long, continuous texts that are usually not read anyway. A video is more accessible. You can re-watch it as many times as you want and pause it when necessary, while performing the different steps in the meantime.

Spare parts list

Finally, also make sure you have a list of your spare parts. Your spare parts list is a listing of all parts linked to the numbering in your schematics. In the list you can find at a glance the type, supplier, cost price and delivery time. You can also see whether or not there are wear parts. That way you can order the necessary spare parts quickly and efficiently. It can also be interesting to stock certain critical spare parts based on the list. Better safe than sorry.

Is all that really necessary, you ask? A resounding YES. If you have the administrative side of things in order, you will soon save a lot of time during periodic maintenance or a technical breakdown. What are you waiting for...