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T E C H T A L K A regular maintenance is a key for reliable nonstop operation of band sawmills Top tips for trouble-free sawmilling Wood-Mizer sawmills are designed for easy operation and reliability, with robust construction for long service life when cutting softwood and hardwood even in arduous environments of extreme temperatures and humidity. Fitted with the correct type and profile of sawblade from Wood-Mizer's wide range, to suit the species of timber being cut and the production rate, the sawmills provide accurate sawing with a quality surface finish and high yield/low waste of the valuable timber. Like all types of machinery, however, regular maintenance is important for trouble-free operation and continued working at optimum performance. After all, a car or truck will not run properly if it is not looked after and topped up with oil, water and fuel. "We do receive calls from customers who have a problem that could have been prevented by following the correct maintenance schedule, which is included in the Operator's Manual", said Dariusz Kujawa, customer service manager with Wood-Mizer. "The small amount of time and effort needed to maintain our sawmills is a good investment because it helps to keep the machine working as it should and can prevent problems that might mean having to stop production while awaiting service or parts. No owner wants that, because an idle sawmill is not making money and customers will be unhappy if their delivery of sawn timber is delayed". 18 WOOD-MIZER TODAY SPRING 2011 Routine maintenance of Wood-Mizer sawmills is inexpensive and simple to do. Some of the most important areas are: Every 25 hours of operation · Clean middle track oiler · Clean and lubricate track Every 50 hours of operation · Clean and lubricate drum switches · Clean and lubricate blade tensioner handle and rods · Clean and lubricate pivot points, fittings and bearings · Clean and lubricate all chains Every 500 hours of operation or once every 12 months (whichever is sooner) · Change fluid in drive side cylindrical bearing · Repack wheel bearings on axle As needed or once every 12 months · Clean and adjust block on hydraulic strip Please note: this is not a complete list but only a summary of some of the most important areas. Full information about the requirements for each sawmill is given in the 'Maintenance' section of the Operators’ Manual and all owners and operators should check this carefully. There is also a 'Maintenance Log' in the Manual, which should be completed each time to keep track of what has been done and ensure that the correct schedule is being followed and that no areas are missed.