Prolonged machine downtime can alter the operating state of the equipment, from power supply and temperature conditions to signal controllers. When the machine is restarted, small errors can easily appear during the load increase phase.
Checking the accuracy of the control center from the very first shifts helps limit the failure rate in the production chain and reduces the risk of unplanned machine downtime.
Check the quality of the power supply before increasing production load
The electrical load in the area often changes after long holidays, leading to voltage fluctuations or the appearance of harmonics during certain operating hours. These fluctuations can directly affect inverters, PLCs, and automatic control systems when the production line starts running continuously.
Recording power quality data during commissioning helps identify power supply anomalies early. Models like the Chauvin Arnoux CA8336 allow monitoring of voltage, load current, harmonics, and voltage drops over actual operating cycles. Data collected in the first few hours is usually sufficient to assess stability before the line reaches its design capacity.
Control signal errors are more likely to occur after a period of machine downtime
Optical sensors, encoders, and analog signals in the 4 to 20 mA range can vary slightly due to environmental influences or mechanical conditions. Small deviations can still lead to recurring errors if the production line operates continuously for extended periods.
Direct observation of the signal waveform helps confirm that the amplitude and frequency are within operating limits. The Tektronix TBS2000B or Keysight DSOX1204G are popular models for quick signal testing in control cabinets and automated machinery.
Operating temperature changes when the production line resumes operation
Dust and moisture buildup during downtime can alter electrical contact and heat dissipation. As load current increases with production, some connection points begin to generate localized heat.
Thermal cameras help quickly identify areas of abnormal temperature on electrical cabinets, busbars, or motor bearings while equipment is in operation. Inspections at high-load locations are often performed during commissioning to reduce the risk of breakdowns during production shifts.
Mechanical vibrations need to be monitored right from the commissioning phase
Drive units such as motors, pumps, and gearboxes can develop mechanical misalignments after prolonged periods of inactivity. Misalignment or imbalance often manifests as slight vibrations initially, but tends to increase as the production line reaches higher loads.
Measuring vibration during startup helps identify changes in operating conditions compared to pre-startup data. When vibration parameters are monitored early, the adjustment process is easier than after the production line has been operating continuously.
The measuring equipment needs to be quickly checked before being put into use
Electrical meters, temperature probes, and handheld test equipment can experience changes in accuracy after prolonged periods of disuse. Data discrepancies in the initial stages can easily lead to inaccurate assessments of operating conditions.
Comparison testing between devices or comparison with internal benchmarks is a common step in many factories before actual measurements. The electrical, temperature, and signal measurement equipment distributed by EMIN Vietnam is widely used as a quick test kit for starting production lines at the beginning of the year.
Power supply, control signals, operating temperature, mechanical condition, and accuracy of measuring equipment directly affect the stability of the production line. When these parameters are checked during the commissioning phase, the system will achieve stable operation faster and minimize errors in the first production batches of the year.
